Some versions of Windows get a “Cannot load overlay location file” error when trying to run Steam the traditional way. This problem has been reported in Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.
It turns out that there are several possible causes for this error message in Steam. Here is a shortlist of possible culprits.
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What is the reason for the “Cannot load overlay location file” message?
As for the cause of this error message, there could be several reasons. If you are using an older build of Steam, the clientregistry.blob file may be damaged. If the application is running in a restricted environment, this problem also cannot be ruled out.
Also, the Windows firewall may be blocking access to the network, so this error may occur. Not to mention that the culprit could be your current Steam installation.
How to solve the “Can’t load overlay location file” issue?
Reinstall Steam
- Launch the Control Panel.
- Click on Programs and Features.
- Select Uninstall Software.
- Select Steam and click Uninstall.
- Then go to Steam and download the latest version of Steam.
Launch Steam with administrator privileges
- Right-click on the Steam shortcut.
- Select Run as administrator. This will force Steam to run with full administrator rights.
- Navigate to C:\NProgram Files (x86)\Steam/.
- Right-click on Steam.exe.
- Then select Properties.
- In the Settings section, select the Run this program as an Administrator option.
- Save your changes.
Steam whitelisting
- Launch the new launch window.
- Type firewall.cpl and press Enter.
- Click Allow an application or feature through the Windows Defender firewall (left pane).
- Click Change settings (right corner).
- Go to Allow another application.
- Select the location of the Steam executable.
- Save your settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the “Cannot load overlay location file” message?
If you are using an older build of Steam, the clientregistry.blob file may be corrupted. If the application is running in a restricted environment, this problem is also unavoidable.
How to troubleshoot the “Cannot load overlay location file” message?
- Reinstall Steam
- Whitelist Steam
- Run Steam with administrator privileges.
What does “Unable to load overlay location file” error mean in Steam?
This error occurs when a user attempts to run Steam in the traditional way. This problem reportedly occurs on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.
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