Picture this: You’re all set for a gaming marathon on Steam, snacks at hand, headset on, but suddenly, you’re stopped. “Steam Missing File Privileges” flashes on your screen, throwing a wrench in your perfect gaming evening. However, it’s like being at the gates of an amusement park, only to find they’re locked!
To fix the “Steam Missing File Privileges” error, restart Steam and check if that resolves the issue. If not, try ending the ‘igfxEM’ process from the Task Manager. You can also change the Steam library folder’s permissions or move the game to a different folder. If these steps don’t work, reinstalling the game might be necessary.
This error is more than a simple annoyance; it’s a barrier between you and your virtual adventures. But fret not. So, for every digital lock, there’s a key. Hence, let’s unravel this issue and find the solution to Steam Missing File Privileges and get you back in the game.
See Also: Steam Not Recognizing Installed Game? Detailed Analysis
Table of Contents
7 Ways To Resolve The Steam Error
Here are the different troubleshooting steps for Steam Missing File Privileges.
Run Steam With Administrator Privileges
Running Steam as an administrator can be effective in resolving permission issues for Steam Missing File Privileges. Right-click on the Steam shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” 
Hence, this grants Steam the necessary permissions to manage files and folders on your system. Remember, administrator access allows Steam to bypass certain restrictions that might cause the ‘Missing File Privileges’ error.
Disable Intel’s igfxEM Module Process
The Intel igfxEM module can interfere with Steam operations as Steam Missing File Privileges. Open Task Manager, locate and end the ‘igfxEM Module’ process. 
Hence, this process is related to Intel’s graphics execution manager, and stopping it can sometimes resolve Steam’s file privilege issues. For more on managing Steam issues, check out our guide on Steam errors.
See Also: How To Fix Steam Game Won’t Launch Issue? [Full Guide]
Change The Download Region In Steam
Switching your Steam download region can solve server-related issues. In Steam, go to Settings > Downloads and select a different region. 
However, this might connect you to a less busy server, potentially resolving the error.
Clear Download Cache In Steam
Clearing Steam’s download cache can fix corrupt cache issues with Steam Missing File Privileges. Go to Steam > Settings > Downloads and click “Clear Download Cache.” 
Hence, this refreshes Steam’s cache without affecting your installed games or their data.
Repair The Steam Library Folder
To repair the Steam Library Folder, navigate to Steam > Settings > Downloads > Steam Library Folders. Right-click and select “Repair Folder.” So, this checks and fixes issues related to the storage of game data. 
Hence, for more detailed instructions on managing Steam library issues, see how to handle Steam download problems.
Verify The Integrity Of Steam Game Files
In Steam, right-click on the affected game, go to Properties > Local Files, and select “Verify Integrity of Game Files.” So, this process checks for corrupted or missing files and repairs them. 
Hence, understanding this process is crucial, as outlined in our guide to Steam game issues.
See Also: Running SFC As An Administrator In A Console Session: A Guide
Reinstall The Steam Client
If all else fails, reinstall the Steam client. Uninstall Steam through the Control Panel and download the latest version from the official website. 
Reinstalling might fix deep-rooted issues causing the error of Steam Missing File Privileges.
How To Avoid Future Errors In Steam?
Keep your Steam client updated to prevent future ‘Steam Missing File Privileges’ errors. So, regularly clear your download cache and run Steam with administrative privileges. Ensure your antivirus is configured not to block Steam processes. 
Regularly check and repair your Steam Library Folders and verify the integrity of game files. Hence, these practices help maintain the smooth operation of Steam and reduce the likelihood of errors.
See Also: Does Your Steam Download Slow? Here’s The Fix!
FAQs
Why am I seeing the Steam Missing File Privileges error?
This error often occurs because Steam needs to have the necessary privileges to access game files. It can be caused by the interference of Intel’s igfxEM module, corrupt Steam download cache, antivirus blocking access, or issues with the Steam library folder .
How can I fix the Steam Missing File Privileges error by running Steam as an administrator?
Right-click on your Steam desktop shortcut and select Run as administrator. This gives Steam the necessary privileges it might need. To always launch Steam with admin rights, go to the shortcut’s properties, enable 'Run this program as an administrator' under the Compatibility tab, and apply the changes .
What is the igfxEM Module, and how does it affect Steam?
The igfxEM (Intel Graphics Execution Manager) Module process can sometimes interfere with Steam. To turn it off, open Task Manager, find the igfxEM Module and end the task. This might resolve the error .
Can changing the download region in Steam solve the Missing File Privileges error?
Yes, changing the download region in Steam might help. Go to Settings > Downloads in the Steam client and switch the Download Region from the dropdown list to a different area. This could solve server overload issues that might be causing the error .
How do I repair the Steam Library Folder to fix this error?
To repair the Steam Library Folder, launch Steam, go to Settings > Downloads > Steam Library Folders, right-click and select Repair Library Folder. This can fix corruption within the folder that might be causing the error .
Conclusion
In conclusion, resolving the error involves a series of systematic steps, including running Steam with administrator privileges, turning off the igfxEM Module process, adjusting download regions, clearing the download cache, repairing the Steam Library Folder, verifying game file integrity, and, if necessary, reinstalling the Steam client for Steam Missing File Privileges.
These measures address various potential causes, from permission issues to corrupt files. Hence, if you’ve found success with these solutions or discovered other effective methods, sharing your experiences and insights can be immensely helpful to others facing similar challenges. Hence, your contributions can be valuable to the gaming community’s collective knowledge.
See Also: How to fix the MSVCP140.dll missing error on Windows?
Robert Irvine, How-To Editor at Automaticable, writes tech tutorials since dial-up days. Former editor of Web User magazine, he’s also a cooking enthusiast (not the celebrity chef).