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Steam Deck Enables SSH Access

By JonathanFeb 21,2025

This guide explains how to enable and use SSH on your Steam Deck for remote access to your files. The Steam Deck's desktop mode allows for more than gaming, and SSH provides secure remote access.

Enabling SSH on the Steam Deck

Follow these steps to enable SSH:

  1. Power on your Steam Deck.
  2. Access the Steam menu (usually a button).
  3. Navigate to Settings > System > System Settings > Enable Developer Mode.
  4. Access the Steam menu again.
  5. Select Power > Switch to Desktop Mode.
  6. Open Konsole (the terminal) from the Start menu.
  7. Set a password (if not already set): passwd (enter and confirm your password).
  8. Start the SSH service: sudo systemctl start sshd
  9. Enable SSH on reboot: sudo systemctl enable sshd
  10. You can now access your Steam Deck remotely using an SSH client.

Important: Avoid modifying or deleting system files to prevent OS corruption.

Disabling SSH on the Steam Deck

To disable SSH:

  1. Open Konsole from the Start menu.
  2. Disable SSH on reboot: sudo systemctl disable sshd
  3. Stop the SSH service immediately: sudo systemctl stop sshd

Connecting to the Steam Deck via SSH

Use a third-party SSH client like Warpinator for easy file transfers. Install Warpinator on both your Steam Deck and your PC, then launch it on both devices simultaneously for simple drag-and-drop file transfer.

Alternatively, if you're using a Linux PC, you can connect directly through your file manager. Enter sftp://deck@steamdeck in the address bar and provide the password you set earlier.

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