Hollow Knight Silksong “Steam error E502 L3”: Possible Fixes Explored

Here is everything you need to know about the Steam error E502 L3 and Hollow Knight Silksong, and explore possible fixes.

Hollow Knight Silksong "Steam error E502 L3": Possible Fixes Explored
Screenshot from the Game: Hollow Knight Silksong (Image via Team Cherry)

If you are greeted by messages like these,” Something Went Wrong. We were unable to service your request while trying to download Hollow Knight Silksong. Followed by Please try again later; then the E502 L3 error appears. This isn’t something you can fix from your end; this is occurring because there is a heavy load on Steam’s servers. Below is a complete explanation, and a few suggestions that could work as a temporary workaround.

Read More: Hollow Knight Silksong System Requirements for PC Explored

Hollow Knight Silksong – Understanding Steam Error E502 L3

Down Detector Showing Steam's Status for Hollow Knight Silksong
Down Detector Showing Steam’s Status – Dated September 4, 2025, due to a surge in Hollow Knight Silksong demand (Image via Down Detector)

Steam error E502 L3 is fundamentally a server-side issue that occurs when Valve’s servers become overwhelmed with gamers trying to get in and play the game. While your internet is peering with Valve, the routing index it follows can be held responsible to an extent. The main problem lies with Steam’s content delivery networks (CDNs). It’s simple. When there is a vast number of people trying to log in, there are ongoing game downloads from others who want to give the game a shot, just like you did. As a result, the connectivity is hampered.

When Sons of the Forest launched, there were similar connectivity issues like these. In the case of Hollow Knight: Silksong, the game was wishlisted for years, attracting millions of users who attempted to purchase it at the same time. All of this resulted in the Steam Store going down as well. We have provided a down detector surge and an outgoing image as a reference above.

Possible Fixes Explored

As we have mentioned, the routing index and peering can be responsible. In this case, you can try a different internet service, such as your mobile data, and see how things fare. Compared to your broadband or other internet service, mobile carriers, in this day and age, have an edge in terms of peering and efficient routing. You can download it or even log in to Steam; it’s a 50-50% chance. Give it a go. Alternatively, you can clear your existing DNS with the help of the commands given below.

  • ipconfig /flushdns 
  • netsh winsock reset 

Use any of the DNSs mentioned here

  • Google DNS – (8.8.8.8/8.8.4.4)
  • Cloudflare – (1.1.1.1/1.0.0.1)

Conclusion 

If all things fail, then waiting is the key. Depending on your ISP and how it has advertised Steam Servers, you may be back online already. Or with your mobile data connection, Steam might have come online by now. Valve’s routing across the globe is excellent; it will only be a matter of time till this situation resolves itself.

Read More: Hollow Knight Story Recap: The “Silent” Knight’s Journey Explained


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