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Steam Deck Fatal Error [Causes & Easy Fixes]

Encountering this error will end all activities on Steam Deck

5 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Steam Deck is a great portable game console. However, users report the Steam Deck fatal error they encounter when using the handheld device, preventing them from accessing their games.

Also, users complain about running intoSteam needing to be online to update error.

What is a fatal error?

A fatal error is an error that appears on a device for numerous reasons, causing your program to terminate without prior warning or saving its state. It stops a program from running due to faulty hardware, bugs, viruses, and other issues.

The error message readsFatal Error: Steam must be online to update. Please confirm your network connection and try again.

However, encountering the fatal error on Steam Deck returns halts any activity on the program.

What causes fatal errors in Steam Deck?

Some common causes include:

The factors responsible for the Fatal error in Steam Deck may vary depending on the device. Nonetheless, we’ll take you through some fixes to resolve the error.

How do I fix the Steam Deck fatal error?

Before trying any advanced steps for the error, proceed with the following:

If you still have this problem after the preliminary checks above, try the solutions below to fix it.

1. Use your Android phone’s mobile tethering

This way, your Steam Deck will be able to use your phone’s internet connection and will be able to go through with the update.

2. Use a keyboard

3. Update Steam Deck firmware

Updating the Steam Deck will install the latest patches for fixing bugs and improving its overall performance. It will resolve the Fatal error. You can read our guide onupdating the Steam Deck Softwarefor more details.

4. Verify the integrity of your game files

Verifying your game files will resolve issues with poorly installed games. Read what to do if youcan’t verify game files integrityon Steam.

5. Factory reset Steam Deck

Resetting the Steam Deck handheld will clear any corrupt files and apps that may cause the Fatal error to occur.

Also, our readers can checkhow to run Android apps on Steam Deckin a few steps.

For more questions or suggestions on this guide, kindly use the comments below.

Steam Deck Fatal Error [Causes & Easy Fixes]#

What is a fatal error?#

What causes fatal errors in Steam Deck?#

How do I fix the Steam Deck fatal error?#

1. Use your Android phone’s mobile tethering#

2. Use a keyboard#

3. Update Steam Deck firmware#

4. Verify the integrity of your game files#

5. Factory reset Steam Deck#