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How to Copy Steam Games Using Peer-to-Peer Transfers over LAN

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Do you own multiple PCs or laptops that are linked to the same local network? Do you want to copy and install Steam games from one computer to another without having to download them again?

If yes, then Peer-to-Peer transfer over Local Network or LAN on Windows PC and other devices is just what you need. In this article, we will explain how you can use a local area network (LAN) to transfer your favorite games and other data between computers with ease. 

How-to-Copy-or-Download-Steam-Games-Using-Peer-to-Peer-Local-Transfers-Over-LAN
Photo credit: ELLA DON/Unsplash

How to Copy or Download Steam Games Using Peer-to-Peer Local Transfers Over LAN

We will also discuss different methods for transferring and copying downloaded game files on your system so you don’t have to waste time downloading the same Steam game twice on multiple devices.

transferring-and-copying-downloaded-game-files-on-steam
Photo credit: Hardik Sharma/Unsplash

#1 Setting Up a Local Area Network (LAN)

To successfully copy Steam games through a peer-to-peer transfer, the first step is to establish a local area network (LAN). Setting up a LAN involves connecting two or more computers in such a way that they can share data. This process requires three main components:

  • Network Interface Card – A physical card installed on each computer connected to the network, which allows them to communicate with one another over the internet.
  • Router – The device responsible for routing and controlling traffic among all of the machines connected on the same local area network.
  • Ethernet Cable – Used for physically connecting each machine together into a single entity.

Once these items are gathered and properly configured, it is time to make sure that both machines have access to each other’s files via their shared LAN connection. 

#2 Installing and Configuring Steam

This can be done by downloading the Steam software client from their official website. After installation, it must then be configured to enable it to connect with other computers in the LAN. 

First of all, you need to make sure that the ‘Enable Remote Play’ option is enabled under settings in order for two or more remote machines connected on a single LAN connection to play together.

The second configuration setting that needs to be changed is the ‘Family Sharing’ setting. Enabling this will allow multiple users across different devices within a local network to share their library of games and any associated save files with one another freely, making game sharing much easier than before. 

Finally, after both these settings have been adjusted, you should select which user accounts are allowed access via Family Sharing from either device’s Settings menu.

#3 Transferring the Steam Game Files Over LAN Local Network

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Image credit: Steam

Transferring games via a local area network can be done in several ways, and there are some key steps you should take before starting. Here’s an overview of how to successfully transfer Steam games over LAN:

First, make sure that your PC is connected to the same local area network as the receiving computer. This will allow for easy communication between devices during the file transfer process. 

Second, open up any firewalls or antivirus software running on either device so that they don’t block the data from being transmitted properly. 

Finally, use one of the following methods to send and receive your game files:

  1. Use a dedicated file-transfer program such as Filezilla or WinSCP which allows users to easily copy files from one machine to another over LAN.
  2. Utilize Windows’ built-in networking features like HomeGroup or Network Sharing through Windows Explorer where each PC will become visible to the other when connected on a single network.
  3. Setup FTP servers on both machines with third-party programs like Serv-U FTP Server or Cerberus FTP Server and then upload/download your game files directly onto those servers.

Whichever method you choose, always remember to back up all important data beforehand as this type of file transfer has risks associated with it. 

However. if everything is setup correctly these risks can usually be minimized. All that remains now is to enjoy playing your newly transferred Steam game.

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David Porter
David Porter
David is prolific writer and full-time Digital Nomad. He is an American expat living in Indonesia who loves to follow the recent technology updates. In his free time, he loves surfing and travel the edge of Indonesia.

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