How to Remove a Computer from Accessing Steam

How to Remove a Computer from Accessing Steam: A Step-by-Step Guide

Steam is a popular gaming platform that offers a vast selection of games, software, and community features. However, there might be times when you want to remove a specific computer from accessing your Steam account. Whether you're trying to secure your account or simply no longer use a particular device, removing a computer from Steam can enhance your privacy and security.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of removing a computer from Steam, ensuring that your account remains safe and secure. By following these steps, you can control which devices can access your Steam library and settings, and prevent unauthorized use.

Step 1: Log Into Your Steam Account

The first step to removing a computer from accessing Steam is to log into your Steam account. Whether you’re on your primary computer or a different device, ensure you’re signed in to the right account.

1. Open the Steam Client: Launch the Steam client on your device or go to the Steam website and log in.
2. Enter Your Credentials: Input your username and password to access your account. https://store.steampowered.com/login/

Step 2: Navigate to Steam Settings

After logging in, you need to access the settings where you can manage your devices. This step will guide you through it:

1. Click on the Steam Menu: In the top-left corner of the Steam client, click on the "Steam" menu.
2. Select Settings: From the dropdown, choose "Settings" (on Windows) or "Preferences" (on macOS).

Step 3: Manage Devices in Steam Guard

Steam Guard is a feature that adds an additional layer of security to your Steam account. Through Steam Guard, you can manage which devices are authorized to access your account. To remove a device from accessing your Steam library, follow these steps:

1. Go to Account Settings: In the "Settings" or "Preferences" window, click on the "Account" tab.
2. Manage Steam Guard: Under the "Account Security" section, find "Steam Guard" and click "Manage Steam Guard Settings."
3. View Authorized Devices: From here, you'll be able to view all devices linked to your account.

Step 4: Deauthorize a Computer

To remove a specific computer from accessing your Steam account, you can deauthorize it through Steam Guard:

1. Find the Device to Remove: Look for the specific device you wish to remove from your Steam account. This could be a shared or old computer that you no longer want to access your account.
2. Click Deauthorize: Next to the device you wish to remove, click the "Deauthorize" button. This will immediately prevent the device from accessing your Steam account.

If the computer is actively using Steam, it may prompt the user to sign in again, and they will no longer have access to your account.

Step 5: Remove Steam from the Device Completely (Optional)

While deauthorizing a computer from Steam will prevent it from accessing your account, you may also want to fully remove Steam from the device itself for added security. Here’s how:

1. Uninstall Steam: On the device, go to the control panel (Windows) or applications folder (macOS) and uninstall the Steam client.
2. Delete Steam Data: After uninstalling Steam, manually delete any remaining Steam folders (located in your computer’s Program Files or Library). This ensures no traces of your Steam account remain on the device.

Step 6: Revoke Access via Steam Website (If Necessary)

In some cases, you may need to access the Steam website to fully revoke any device’s access to your account. This is especially useful if you have forgotten to remove a device from Steam.

1. Login to Steam on the Web: Visit the Steam website and log in with your credentials.
2. Access Your Account Settings: Go to your account settings and click on "Manage Steam Guard" under the "Account" tab.
3. Deauthorize Devices: From the list of authorized devices, select any device you wish to remove.

Step 7: Consider Changing Your Password

For additional security, especially if you’re concerned that someone may have unauthorized access to your account, consider changing your Steam password:

1. Change Password: In your Steam account settings, select "Change Password" and follow the steps to create a new, strong password.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For further protection, enable Steam’s two-factor authentication (Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator), which will require a unique code from your mobile device each time you log in.

FAQs

Q1: Can I remove multiple devices from Steam at once?
Yes, you can deauthorize several devices individually through the Steam Guard settings. Unfortunately, Steam doesn’t currently offer a bulk deauthorization option.

Q2: What if I forgot my Steam password?
If you’ve forgotten your Steam password, you can reset it by selecting the "Forgot Password" option on the Steam login page. You’ll receive an email with instructions to reset your password.

Q3: How can I ensure no one else can log into my Steam account?
To prevent others from logging into your account, enable two-factor authentication (Steam Guard) and regularly change your password. Additionally, be mindful of shared computers and public networks.

Q4: Does removing a computer from Steam delete my games?
No, removing a computer from Steam will not affect your game library. Your games are tied to your Steam account, not specific devices. You can always reinstall them on any device after logging in.