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How to Enable Steam Guard
Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
SteamSecurityAccountPCProtectionFeaturesUser GuideSafetyDigital DistributionAuthentication
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Steam Guard is an important feature that adds an extra layer of security to your Steam account. It works as a two-factor authentication system, meaning you have to verify your identity in two ways before you can access your account. In this guide, we will show you how to enable Steam Guard step by step. The process is simple and will help protect your personal information and your game library from unauthorized access.
Understanding the importance of Steam Guard
Before diving into the steps, let's first understand why it's important to enable Steam Guard. In today's digital age, protecting online accounts is more important than ever. With the rise in cyber threats and hacking attempts, having a strong security measure can avoid potential vulnerabilities. Steam Guard adds a second verification step whenever you log in from a new device. This means that even if someone somehow gets your password, they won't be able to access your account without the unique code generated by Steam Guard.
Ways to enable Steam Guard
There are two ways to enable Steam Guard: via email and through the Steam mobile app. You can choose whichever method suits you best, or use both for extra protection.
Method 1: Enabling Steam Guard via Email
Enabling Steam Guard via your email is one of the simplest ways to add extra security to your account. Here's how you can do it:
- Launch the Steam client:
Open the Steam client on your computer. Make sure you are logged into your Steam account. If you don't have Steam installed, visit the official Steam website to download the client.
- Access Steam Settings:
Click "Steam" in the upper-left corner of the client. From the drop-down menu, select "Settings" if you're on a PC or "Preferences" if you're on a Mac.
- Open account settings:
In the settings window, make sure you are in the “Account” tab. Here you will see all the information related to your Steam account.
- Manage Steam Guard:
Click the button labeled "Manage Steam Guard Account Security." This will open a new window where you can manage your Steam Guard settings.
- Enable protection via email:
In the Steam Guard panel, select the option to receive a Steam Guard code via email. Whenever you log in from a new device, you'll get a confirmation that Steam Guard is now enabled.
Whenever you try to log in from a new location, Steam will send a unique code to your email, which you'll need to enter to complete the log-in process.
Method 2: Enabling Steam Guard via the mobile app
Using the Steam mobile app for Steam Guard is convenient and provides an additional level of security. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Install the Steam mobile app:
Download and install the Steam app on your smartphone. It is available for both Android and iOS devices. You can find it in the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
- Log in to your Steam account:
Open the Steam app and log in using your Steam credentials. If this is your first time logging in from the app, you will receive a Steam Guard email code to verify your identity.
- Access Steam Guard settings in the mobile app:
After logging in, go to the menu by tapping the three horizontal lines in the upper-left corner. Then select “Steam Guard” from the menu options.
- Enable Steam Guard:
In the Steam Guard section, select "Get Steam Guard codes from my phone." This option will make your phone the primary device for generating Steam Guard codes.
By selecting this option, your phone will generate a code every 30 seconds. You will need to enter this code along with your password every time you log in from a new device.
- Back up your recovery codes:
After setting up the app, you will receive a recovery code. It is important to write it down or store it safely. If you lose your phone, this code can help you regain access to your account.
Managing your Steam Guard settings
After enabling Steam Guard, it is equally important to manage your settings. Sometimes, you may need to temporarily disable Steam Guard or switch between methods of receiving codes, for example, from email to the mobile app or vice versa.
Switching between methods
If you initially enabled Steam Guard via email but later want to switch to the mobile app, you can do so easily:
- Access your account settings as before and open the Steam Guard management panel.
- Choose the option to set up a Steam Guard code through the mobile app, following the steps outlined in the Mobile Setup section.
This process is reversible; if you ever decide to receive codes via email, simply select the email option in your Steam Guard settings.
Temporarily disabling Steam Guard
There may be times when you need to temporarily disable Steam Guard. Here's how:
- Go to your Steam account settings.
- Go to the Steam Guard section.
- Choose the option to temporarily disable Steam Guard. Keep in mind that this will reduce the security of your account, making it more vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Troubleshooting common problems
Although Steam Guard is a reliable security feature, users may still encounter issues sometimes.
Not receiving email codes
- Check your spam or junk folder as sometimes Steam Guard emails end up there.
- Make sure your Steam account is linked to the correct email address. If necessary, update your email address in the account settings.
Problems with the Steam mobile app
- Make sure the app is up-to-date by checking for updates in the App Store.
- Make sure your device's time setting is set to Automatic. Incorrect time settings can interfere with the generation of Steam Guard codes.
Final words
Steam Guard is a vital feature for protecting your valuable Steam account from unauthorized access. Whether you prefer to receive your codes via email or prefer to use the mobile app for convenience, enabling Steam Guard is a straightforward process that can save you a lot of hassle in the long run. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your games and personal information remain safe and protected.
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