Chances are losing access to your Steam account is a thought you don’t want. Just imagine losing your years’ worth of games, progress, achievements, and memories. This scenario seems like a nightmare for a PC gamer. Fortunately, you can avoid this from ever happening by generating Steam backup codes. This guide will tell you about one of the best security features of Steam so you’re never locked out of your account.
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What are Steam Backup Codes?
Steam backup codes, as their name suggests, help you access your Steam account in case of any problems. They are the safety net that protects your account in case you lose access to your Steam Guard. Whether your email gets compromised, you lose your phone or delete the app, these codes come to your rescue.
These codes act like spare keys for your Steam account. For this reason, you should keep them safe somewhere you can never lose access. For instance, you can upload them to your drive, take screenshots, or even print them if you’re old school.
How Do You Generate Steam Backup Codes?
The process of generating Steam backup codes is a simple one. However, to ensure it goes smoothly, this process is explained in detail here:
1. Open Steam
This step is straightforward. You first have to open your Steam client. However, ensure you’re using Steam on your PC (desktop or web client). Also, log in using the account you wish to receive the backup codes.
2. Access Security Settings
Once you’re logged in, hover over your account name at the top right corner of the screen. Next, select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
3. Navigate to Backup Codes
Go to ‘Security’ and you’ll see a ‘Get Backup Codes’ button.
4. Generate Your Codes
Steam will prompt you to enter a code sent to your registered phone number for security reasons. Once you do, you’ll see a list of backup codes.
5. Save Your Codes
Each code is unique and can only be used once, so it’s important to save them somewhere secure.
You can write these codes down, take a screenshot, or save them in a password manager. Just make sure they’re stored somewhere safe and accessible.
Why You Should Use Steam Backup Codes?
Having Steam backup codes is like having an emergency plan. You might not think you’ll need them, but if you ever do, you’ll be glad you have them. Here’s why generating and saving these codes is a good idea:
- Protection Against Device Loss: If you lose your phone, you won’t be able to receive Steam Guard codes. Backup codes ensure you can still log in.
- Account Recovery: You can easily recover your account if you have your backup codes on hand.
- Traveling or Switching Devices: These codes are life savers if switching devices or traveling somewhere.
Tips for Managing Your Backup Codes
Now that you’ve generated your Steam backup codes, here are a few tips to make sure you’re managing them correctly:
- Keep Them Secure: Store your codes in a safe place. For instance, they shouldn’t be on the same device as your Steam app. A password manager or a secure cloud storage service is ideal. Also, make sure they are present at multiple secure locations.
- Update Them Regularly: If you generate new backup codes, remember that the old ones will no longer work.
- Don’t Share Them: These codes are a lifeline for your account. Don’t share them with anyone, even if they seem trustworthy. Steam support won’t ask for these codes.
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Conclusion
A PC gamer’s most precious possession is their Steam account. To keep it safe, your Steam backup codes can be your best friend. For this reason, keep them updated and at secure locations so you never lose access to your treasure.
