How to share Steam games with Family Sharing

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Sharing Steam games with Family Sharing allows users to share their game library with family members on different accounts. This feature enables multiple users to access and play games without needing to purchase multiple copies.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the Family Sharing setup, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A Steam account in good standing with no restrictions.
  • •Both the primary account and the shared account must have Steam Guard enabled.
  • •A stable internet connection for both accounts during setup.
  • •Access to the computer where the primary account's library is located.

Method 1: Setting Up Family Sharing via Steam Client

This method is the primary way to enable Family Sharing directly through the Steam client. Use this method if you have access to the primary account's Steam library.
  • •Step 1: Open the Steam client and log in to the primary account.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Steam' in the top left corner, then select 'Settings' (or 'Preferences' on macOS).
  • •Step 3: In the Settings menu, click on 'Family' on the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Check the box that says 'Authorize Library Sharing on this computer'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Manage other accounts' and select the accounts you want to share your library with.
  • •Step 6: Click 'OK' to save your settings.
  • •Step 7: Have the shared account log in to Steam on the same computer to verify access to the shared library.
  • •Step 8: To verify it worked, check the Library section of the shared account; the shared games should appear.
  • •Step 9: If it doesn't work, ensure both accounts have Steam Guard enabled and are logged into the same computer.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users should follow the same steps as above, ensuring that they have the latest version of the Steam client installed.
  • •Step 1: Open the Start menu, search for 'Steam', and open the application.
  • •Step 2: Ensure Windows 11 is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same setup process as outlined above.
  • •Step 1: Open the Steam client from the desktop or Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Make sure your Windows 10 is updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.

Method 2: Family Sharing via Steam Website

This alternative method allows users to manage Family Sharing settings through the Steam website.
  • •Step 1: Go to the Steam website and log in to the primary account.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to your account settings by clicking on your username in the top right corner and selecting 'Account Details'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down to 'Family Sharing' and click on 'Manage Family Sharing Settings'.
  • •Step 4: Authorize devices and accounts as needed.
  • •Step 5: Have the shared account log in to Steam on the authorized device to access the shared library.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while setting up Family Sharing, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Library Sharing is not available' - Solution: Ensure both accounts have Steam Guard enabled and are logged into the same computer.
  • •Issue: 'Game not appearing in Library' - Fix: Check if the game is supported for Family Sharing; not all games are eligible.
  • •Problem: 'Unable to authorize account' - Workaround: Log out and back into the Steam client, and repeat the authorization steps.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your Family Sharing experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + N - Create a new game library folder for better organization.
  • •Command line: steam://open/settings - Quickly access Steam settings directly from your browser.
  • •Hidden feature: Steam Family View - Access this feature to restrict access to certain games for younger family members.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To maximize the benefits of Family Sharing, ensure both accounts are regularly maintained and updated.