how to share steam library

This article explains Steam Family Sharing, a feature enabling users to share their game library with friends without compromising account security. It details the authorization process, limitations (one user at a time, exclusions of DLC/pre-orders)

How to Share Your Steam Library

Sharing your Steam library with a friend is possible through Steam Family Sharing. This feature allows you to authorize another computer to access your game library, provided you meet certain conditions. Here's how:

1. Authorize the computer: On your primary Steam account, go to your Steam client settings. Navigate to the "Family" tab. You'll find the option to authorize a computer. Select this and follow the on-screen instructions. This process will essentially link the computer to your account for family sharing purposes. Only one computer can be authorized at a time under the same account.
2. Log in on the authorized computer: On the authorized computer, open the Steam client and log in using your friend's Steam account. Your friend will need their own Steam account and credentials. They cannot use your account.
3. Access your library: Once logged in, your friend will see a section of your library labeled "Family Library Sharing". They will be able to select and install any games from that section.
4. Important Note: Only one person can use your shared library at a time. If you log into your account on your computer or another authorized computer, your friend will be automatically logged out of the shared library on their computer. Also, DLC and pre-orders are not shared.

Can I Share My Steam Games with a Friend Without Giving Them My Account Details?

Yes, you absolutely can share your Steam games with a friend without giving them your account details. This is the whole point of Steam Family Sharing. The feature is designed to allow sharing of games without compromising your account security. You are authorizing a computer, not giving access to your account login information. Your friend needs their own Steam account to access the shared games.

What are the Limitations of Steam Family Sharing?

Steam Family Sharing, while convenient, does have some limitations:

• One user at a time: Only one person can play your shared games at a time. If you log into your account on any computer, the other person will be automatically logged out.
• Not all games are shareable: Some games may be excluded from Family Sharing by the developer's decision. This is usually due to DRM or other restrictions.
• DLC and Pre-orders are not shared: Downloadable content (DLC) and pre-ordered games are not included in the sharing. Your friend will need to purchase these separately.
• Save games are not shared: Each user has their own separate save files.
• Limited access to certain features: Some games might have certain online features unavailable to the person using the shared library.
• Authorized computer limitation: You can only authorize one computer at a time for family sharing. If you need to share with another computer, you must first deauthorize the current one.

Is There a Cost Associated with Using Steam Family Sharing?

No, there is no cost associated with using Steam Family Sharing. It's a free feature built into the Steam client, allowing you to share your game library with authorized family members or friends without any additional fees.

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