Steam App Configuration Unavailable: How to Fix

Remove the appinfo.vdf file when faced with this Steam app issue

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Several users have complained about the Steam app configuration unavailable error appearing during game installation or launch. The error prevents users from installing the game and sometimes can occur during updates. However, this guide will discuss the steps for fixing the problem on your PC.

Alternatively, you can read our article about ways to fixSteam download stopping and startingon Windows 11.

Why is the Steam app configuration unavailable?

Many factors may be responsible for the An error occurred while installing… (missing app configuration) error message during installation or update. Here are some prominent ones:

These factors can vary on different computers depending on the circumstances. Regardless, we’ll take detailed steps to fix the error and get Steam working.

How can I fix the Steam app configuration unavailable?

Before trying any advanced steps, go through the following preliminary checks:

If you can’t go around the Steam installation error, proceed with the fixes below:

1. Remove the appinfo.vdf file

While Steam is booting up, it scans for the appinfo.vdf configuration file. If it can’t find the file on the system, it rebuilds it in the process and writes a new one.

2. Run the Steam client as an administrator

Running Steam as an administrator can resolve any permissions issues affecting its performance. Check our guide about what to do if youcan’t run apps as an administratoron your PC.

In addition, you can read through our article about how to permanently fix theslow download speed on Steam.

Also, we have a detailed guide on some methods forstopping Steam from opening on startupon Windows 11.

If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section below.

Steam App Configuration Unavailable: How to Fix#

Why is the Steam app configuration unavailable?#

How can I fix the Steam app configuration unavailable?#

1. Remove the appinfo.vdf file#

2. Run the Steam client as an administrator#

Steam App Configuration Unavailable: How to Fix

Why is the Steam app configuration unavailable?

How can I fix the Steam app configuration unavailable?

1. Remove the appinfo.vdf file

2. Run the Steam client as an administrator