If you’re getting error 126 while playing DOTA 2, follow the troubleshooting steps listed in this guide to fix it.
How to Fix DOTA 2 Error Code 126
Fix 1 – Disable your antivirus
One of the simplest solutions to get rid of error 126 is to temporarily turn off your antivirus. Of course, disabling your antivirus means that your system is left vulnerable to threats, so proceed at your own risk.
And don’t forget to turn on your antivirus protection when you’re done testing or playing.
Fix 1 – Check your firewall
Your firewall may be blocking the game without you even knowing it. Try disabling the firewall and then launch the game again to check if the error persists.
Also, don’t forget to add the game to the list of exceptions.
Fix 3 – Install the latest OS updates
If it’s been a while since you installed the latest OS updates on your computer, that may explain why you’re getting error 126 when playing DOTA 2.
Install all the available system updates and launch the game again.
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Fix 4 – Repair corrupted files
Corrupted system files may cause many technical issues, including game errors. The simplest way to repair corrupted files is to use the File System Checker tool.
Launch Command Prompt as an admin, type the sfc /scannow command, hit Enter, and wait for the scanning process to complete. Restart your computer and check if the error persists.
Fix 5 – Repair DOTA 2
If none of the solutions listed above worked, try repairing Steam Client.
- Open your Steam client -> go to Library -> select DOTA 2.
- Right-click on the game -> select Properties.
- Go to the Local Files tab -> click on Verify Integrity of Game Files. Steam will start verifying all the files. If there is any file missing/corrupted, it will download them again.
- Go to Settings -> click on the Downloads tab -> go to “Steam Library Folders”
- Right-click on the game -> select “Repair Library Files”.
- Restart Steam and check if the error is gone.
If DOTA 2 error 126 persists, contact Steam support.