1. How to Share Steam Library with Others * bigfinish.com

Sharing is caring, or so the adage goes. And when it comes to gaming, there’s no better way to show your friends and family how much you care than by sharing your Steam library with them. After all, who needs IRL friends when you can have virtual ones to play with? But before you can start doling out access to your prized collection of games, there are a few things you need to know. So grab a controller, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the ins and outs of Steam library sharing.

First things first, you’ll need to enable Family Sharing on your Steam account. It’s a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Once you’ve done that, you can start adding friends and family members to your “Authorized Computers” list. These are the people who will be able to access your library. But beware, once you’ve added someone to your list, they’ll have access to all of your games, so choose wisely!

Now, let’s say you’ve got a friend who’s been begging you to play that new game you’ve been raving about. But alas, they don’t own it. No problem! As long as you’ve enabled Family Sharing, you can simply launch the game from your account and your friend can join you from their own account. It’s like magic! Just remember, only one person can play a game at a time, so if you’re planning on playing together, make sure you coordinate your schedules.

Sharing Your Steam Library: Understanding the Basics

Enabling Family Library Sharing

Step 1: Open Steam Settings

Launch the Steam application and click on “Steam” in the top-left corner. Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.

Step 2: Navigate to Family

In the Settings window, click on the “Family” tab on the left-hand side. This will open the Family Library Sharing settings.

Step 3: Authorize Other Accounts

Click on the “Authorize Library Sharing on this computer” button. A pop-up window will appear asking you to enter the Steam account credentials of the person you want to share your library with.

Step 4: Select Account and Confirm

Enter the Steam username and password of the person you want to authorize. Check the box next to “This person will be able to play your games from their own account.” and click on the “Authorize” button.

Step 5: Repeat for Additional Accounts

You can authorize up to 10 accounts for Family Library Sharing. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each additional account you want to share your library with.

Step 6: Accept Authorization

The person you authorized will receive an email notification. They need to log into their Steam account and accept the authorization request.

Setting Up Family Sharing on Steam

Steam Family Sharing lets you give access to your games to family members and close friends. Note that this does not mean your account is shared, but rather the games in your library. Note that only 10 devices can be authorized on your account at once. If you want to add more devices, you must first remove one of the existing authorized devices.

Who can use Family Sharing? Family Sharing works between accounts that are linked by Steam Guard. A child or minor can use Family Sharing with a parent’s or legal guardian’s permission. To enable this, the child’s Steam account must be set up as a limited user account and linked to the parent’s or guardian’s account.

Authorizing a Computer

To authorize a computer or mobile device to access Family Sharing, the computer must be signed into the Steam account using the following steps:

Ensure that both computers are on the same local area network (LAN) or connected to the internet.

On the computer that you want to authorize, open the Steam client.

Click on the “Steam” menu in the upper left corner of the window.

Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.

Click on the “Family” tab in the Settings window.

Check the box next to “Authorize this computer” and click “OK”.

On the other computer, open the Steam client and sign in with the account that you want to share your library with.

Click on the “Steam” menu in the upper left corner of the window.

Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.

Click on the “Family” tab in the Settings window.

Click on the “Authorize this computer” button and enter the authorization code that was displayed on the other computer.

Once you have authorized a computer, you can access the shared games from the “Library” tab in the Steam client.

Steam Account	Authorized Devices
username1	PC1, PC2, Mobile Device 1
username2	PC3, PC4
username3	PC5

Selecting Games to Share

Before sharing your Steam library, carefully consider which games you’re willing to open up to others. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Ownership rights: Ensure that you fully own the games you intend to share. Pirated or illegally obtained games cannot be shared with other accounts.
Game type:Multiplayer games may require specific permission settings to enable multiple players to access the same account. Consider the game’s multiplayer capabilities before sharing it.
Potential impact: Sharing your library with others can affect your gameplay or account status. Some games may limit access to certain features or exclude in-game achievements if played using a shared account.

Additional Considerations for Multiplayer Games

Multiplayer games present unique challenges when it comes to sharing. Here are a few aspects to note:

Factor	Impact
Shared game progress	Playing a shared game may overwrite or affect the game progress of the other user.
Account linking	Multiplayer games may require accounts to be linked, which can raise privacy concerns.
In-game purchases	Any in-game purchases made by the other user will be tied to your account.
Game bans	If the other user receives a game ban for the shared game, it may also affect your account.

Given these potential pitfalls, it’s crucial to communicate clearly with the other player about the risks and responsibilities associated with sharing multiplayer games.

Inviting Family Members

To share your Steam library with family members, you must first create a Family Library Sharing group. This group allows up to five accounts within your family to access your library.

1. Create a Family Library Sharing Group

Open the Steam client and click on “Steam” in the top left corner. Select “Settings” and then “Family.” Click on “Manage Family Library Sharing” and follow the on-screen instructions to create a group.

2. Invite Family Members

Once you have created a group, you can invite family members to join. Click on “Invite a Friend or Family Member” and enter the email address of the person you want to invite. They will receive an email with instructions on how to join the group.

3. Authorize Their Devices

After your family members have joined the group, they will need to authorize their devices to access your library. To do this, they should log into their Steam account on the device and click on “Steam” in the top left corner. Select “Settings” and then “Family.” They should then click on “Authorize Device” and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Set Up Game-Specific Permissions

Once your family members have authorized their devices, they will be able to access your entire Steam library. However, you can set up game-specific permissions to restrict access to certain games. To do this, open the Steam client and click on the game you want to restrict. Right-click on the game and select “Properties.” Click on the “Family” tab and select the permissions you want to set for your family members.

Permission	Description
Always allow	Your family members will always be able to play the game, even if you are not online.
Only when you are playing	Your family members will only be able to play the game when you are also playing it.
Never	Your family members will not be able to play the game at all.

Managing Library Permissions

Steam’s Family Sharing feature allows you to share your game library with up to 10 other Steam accounts. Once you’ve enabled Family Sharing, authorized users can access and play your games from their own accounts.

Setting Up Family Sharing

To enable Family Sharing, follow these steps:

Log into your Steam account and open the “Settings” menu.
Go to the “Family” tab.
Click the “Manage Family Sharing” button.
Select the accounts you want to share your library with.
Click the “Authorize” button.

Authorized Computers

Once you’ve authorized a computer, the authorized users can access your library from any computer that’s connected to the internet and has Steam installed.

Limitations

There are a few limitations to Family Sharing:

Not all games are eligible for Family Sharing.
Only one authorized user can play a game at a time.
Authorized users cannot purchase or modify games in your library.

Revoking Authorization

To revoke authorization for a computer or user, follow these steps:

Log into your Steam account and open the “Settings” menu.
Go to the “Family” tab.
Click the “Manage Family Sharing” button.
Select the computer or user you want to revoke authorization for.
Click the “Deauthorize” button.

Unauthorized Computers
If you’re unable to access your library from an authorized computer, it may have been removed from the “Authorized Computers” list. To re-authorize the computer, follow the steps below: Log into your Steam account and open the “Settings” menu. Go to the “Family” tab. Click the “Manage Family Sharing” button. Select the computer you want to re-authorize. Click the “Authorize” button.

Unauthorized Computers

If you’re unable to access your library from an authorized computer, it may have been removed from the “Authorized Computers” list. To re-authorize the computer, follow the steps below:

Log into your Steam account and open the “Settings” menu.
Go to the “Family” tab.
Click the “Manage Family Sharing” button.
Select the computer you want to re-authorize.
Click the “Authorize” button.

Setting Up Library Sharing

Navigate to your Steam profile page and select "Edit Profile."
Click on the "Family" tab and check the box next to "Authorize Library Sharing."
Enter the account name or email address of the person you want to share your library with.
Click "Authorize."
Your friend will receive an email notification requesting confirmation.
Once they accept, you can view the account under "Authorized Computers" in your library sharing settings.

Limitations of Library Sharing

While library sharing is generally a convenient way to share games with friends and family, there are some limitations to be aware of:

Limitation	Explanation
Shared game ownership	Only one account can play a shared game at a time.
Offline access	Shared games cannot be played offline by the borrower unless the owner is also offline.
VAC bans	If the borrower’s account is VAC-banned, they will not be able to access shared games.
Purchase restrictions	Borrowers can only purchase games from their own Steam account.
Regional restrictions	Shared games may not be accessible in regions where they are not supported.

Logging Into a Shared Account

If you encounter difficulties logging into a shared account, verify the following:

Ensure you are using the correct login credentials for the shared account.
Check if the account owner has granted you authorization to access their library.
Make sure you are connected to the same Steam network as the account owner.

Game Availability

Some games may be unavailable for sharing due to restrictions imposed by developers or publishers. Additionally, certain games require additional purchases or subscriptions to access multiplayer or other features.

Platform Compatibility

Library sharing is not supported across different platforms (e.g., sharing a PC game library with a Mac user). Ensure both accounts are using the same platform to access the shared library.

Account Limitations

Each Steam account can only share its library with a limited number of other accounts (up to 10). Exceeding this limit may prevent library sharing.

Multiple Computers

Simultaneous access to the same game from multiple computers using the same account is not permitted. If you encounter this issue, ensure that no other devices are logged into the shared account.

Account Suspensions

If your account has been suspended, you will not be able to access shared libraries until the suspension is lifted.

Parental Controls

Parental controls or family sharing settings may restrict access to certain games in shared libraries. Verify that the appropriate settings are enabled on both accounts.

Considerations for Shared Accounts

Who you share with: Trust is key when sharing your Steam account. Only share with individuals you know well and trust to handle your account responsibly.

Games with anti-cheat measures: Sharing accounts can trigger anti-cheat systems, potentially leading to bans on both accounts involved.

Account recovery: If the shared account is ever lost or compromised, both the owner and the sharer may lose access to their games.

License restrictions: Some games have license agreements that prohibit sharing or potentially void the license if detected.

Privacy and security: Sharing an account means giving the other person access to your personal information, chat history, and financial data.

Banned games: If one of the shared accounts gets banned, it can affect the other account as well, as they are linked.

Updates and maintenance: Both the owner and the sharer must coordinate updates, maintenance, and troubleshooting, which can create inconvenience.

Potential legal implications: Sharing accounts without the express consent of the owner can violate copyright laws and may have legal consequences.

Benefits of Steam Library Sharing

Extended Game Access

Sharing your library allows friends and family to access your vast collection of games, expanding their gaming horizons without purchasing additional copies.

Cost Savings

Instead of purchasing multiple copies of the same game, sharing your library enables you to share the financial burden and save money for other gaming expenses.

Convenience

By sharing your library, you eliminate the need for your friends to download and install games from scratch. They can instantly access your games with ease.

Improved Socialization

Library sharing fosters a sense of community and encourages social interaction among friends. It allows you to play cooperative or competitive games together, strengthening your bonds.

Streamlined Management

Managing a shared library is simple and user-friendly. You can easily view who has access to your games, adjust permissions, and revoke access when necessary.

Shared Achievements and Progress

When friends access games through your library, they can earn achievements and make progress that is automatically saved and shared with you. This shared experience enhances the sense of camaraderie and competition.

Versatile Options

Steam library sharing offers flexible options. You can choose to share your entire library or handpick specific games. This customization ensures that you maintain control over which games are shared.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Steam library sharing transcends platform boundaries. Friends can access your games from different operating systems, allowing you to enjoy multiplayer experiences with a wider range of players.

Enhanced Gaming Value

By extending your library to others, you increase its overall value. Sharing games promotes enjoyment, social interaction, and cost savings, making your Steam collection a valuable asset.

Responsible Library Sharing Practices

When sharing your Steam library with others, it’s important to be responsible and follow these best practices:

1. Only Share with Trusted Friends or Family

Only share your library with people you trust to not abuse the privilege or share your account details with unauthorized individuals.

2. Set Up Family Sharing

Use Family Sharing to designate authorized members who can access your library without needing your password. This feature allows you to control who has access and limits the number of concurrent users.

3. Monitor Library Usage

Regularly check your Steam account activity to ensure that your library is only being used by authorized members. If you notice any suspicious activity, disable Family Sharing or change your account password.

4. Avoid Sharing with Strangers

Never share your library with strangers or individuals who you do not know well. This can compromise your account security and lead to theft or misuse of your games.

5. Limit Concurrent Users

Set a limit on the number of concurrent users allowed to access your library through Family Sharing. This prevents multiple individuals from using your games simultaneously.

6. Respect Licensing Agreements

Be aware of any licensing restrictions or terms of service related to the games in your library. Ensure that you are complying with these agreements when sharing your library with others.

7. Communicate with Authorized Users

Inform authorized members about your sharing policies and the importance of responsible library usage. Encourage them to respect your property and avoid abusing the privilege.

8. Use a Password Manager

Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your Steam account credentials. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your library and protects your personal information.

9. Be Cautious of Phishing Scams

Be on the lookout for phishing scams that attempt to trick you into sharing your Steam account credentials. Never click on suspicious links or provide your login information to unauthorized websites.

10. Regularly Review and Adjust

Periodically review your Family Sharing settings and authorized members. Make adjustments as needed to ensure that your library is being shared responsibly and securely. Monitor recent usage activity and address any concerns promptly.

How to Share My Steam Library with Family and Friends

Sharing your Steam library with others allows them to access and play your games from their own accounts. This can be a great way to share your favorite games with family members, friends, or even roommates. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Steam client and click on “Settings” in the top-right corner.
Select the “Family” tab.
Click on the “Authorize Library Sharing” button.
Enter the username of the person you want to share your library with and click on “Authorize.”

Once you’ve authorized library sharing, the other person will need to accept the request from their own Steam account. Once they’ve accepted, they’ll be able to access your library and play any of your games.