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Error codeSteamSteam games on VAC-secured servers (PC)
Steam: "Secure connection failed"
Can't connect to a VAC-secured server
Steam can't connect you to a secure game server. Steam names four main causes: connection problems, security software, background applications and third-party anti-cheat tools.
How to fix "Secure connection failed"
Open the ports Steam requires on your router or firewall, then exit and restart Steam.
Allow Steam and the game in your firewall and antivirus, and don't run more than one firewall at once.
Close peer-to-peer, file-sharing and bandwidth-limiting programs before playing.
Don't run third-party anti-cheat software on VAC-secured servers.
From Steam's help pages: help.steampowered.com, in our words. Checked on 5 November 2026. If the steps do not help, Steam's own support is the next stop.
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