How to Share Games on Steam: A Complete Guide

how to share games on Steam with Family Sharing

Steam is the largest digital distribution platform for PC games, developed by Valve Corporation. It provides users with access to a vast library of games and offers several features that enhance the gaming experience. One of the most useful features is Steam Family Sharing, which allows users to share their games with friends and family without needing to buy multiple copies. In this article, we will explain how Family Sharing works, as well as provide helpful tips and recommendations.

What is Steam Family Sharing?, How to Share Games on Steam: Step-by-Step Guide, Main Advantages of Steam Family Sharing, Limitations of Steam Family Sharing, Common Issues and How to Fix Them, Conclusion

Steam Family Sharing is a free feature that allows account owners to share their game library with other users. Each user who gains access to the shared library can play games on their own account, making it easier for friends and family to enjoy games without purchasing them separately.

With Family Sharing, you can link up to 5 accounts and 10 devices, allowing multiple people to enjoy the games. However, keep in mind that only one person can access the shared library at a time. Additionally, not all games are available for sharing due to licensing restrictions.

Step 1: Enable Steam Guard

Before using Family Sharing, you need to activate Steam Guard, a security feature that protects your account.

Open Steam on your computer.
Click on Steam in the top left corner and select Settings (or Preferences on Mac).
In the settings menu, go to the Account section.
Click on Manage Steam Account Security (Steam Guard).
Choose one of the protection options: Email Verification or Mobile Authenticator, to enable Steam Guard.

Step 2: Authorize a Device for Family Sharing

After enabling Steam Guard, follow these steps to authorize a device for Family Sharing on Steam.

Log into your Steam account on the computer you want to share your library on.
Click on Steam in the top left corner and select Settings.
Go to the Family section.
Check the box next to Allow Library Sharing on this Computer.
A list of accounts that have logged into Steam on this computer will appear. Check the boxes next to the accounts you want to share your library with.

Step 3: The Other User Logs into Their Account

Now that the device is authorized, the other person needs to:

Log out of your Steam account.
Log into their own account on the same computer.
Go to the Library section, where they will see your shared games available to play.

Steam Family Sharing not only saves money but also simplifies the process of accessing games for family and friends. Here are some of the main benefits:

Cost Savings: One person buys the game, and others can play it for free.
Flexibility: Family members or friends can play games on different devices.
Easy Setup: The feature is simple to set up and requires just a few steps.

Despite its convenience, Family Sharing has a few limitations:

Simultaneous Access: Only one user can play a game from the shared library at a time. If the owner starts playing any game, the other user will be kicked out.
Not All Games Are Available: Some games, protected by third-party DRM (such as subscription services or other forms of external DRM), do not support sharing.
DLC and In-Game Purchases: Additional content like DLC and in-game purchases are not shared with other users. Other users can buy their own DLC for shared games, but the library owner will not have access to them.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Games Not Showing Up in Another User’s Library:

Ensure that Steam Guard is enabled on both accounts.
Check that the device is properly authorized for Family Sharing.
Make sure both users are connected to the internet.

Error: "Game Currently Unavailable":

This can happen if the library owner is playing any game from their library, which blocks access for other users.
Games with third-party DRM may not support sharing.

Unable to Authorize Library Sharing:

Ensure that you are logged into your account on the device.
Check that you haven’t exceeded the 5 accounts and 10 devices limit.

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Conclusion

Steam Family Sharing is a fantastic way to share games with friends and family, saving money and making games more accessible. Despite a few limitations, it remains a highly convenient tool for many users. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily set up and enjoy Family Sharing, making your gaming experience even more enjoyable.