SteamOS is our Linux-based operating system. The base system draws from Debian 8, code named Debian Jessie. Our work builds on top of the solid Debian core and optimizes it for a living room experience. Most of all, it’s an open Linux platform that gives you full control. You can take charge of your system and install the software and content that you want.

You can play any game that has SteamOS/Linux support. Here’s a list of games that support SteamOS/Linux.

Login to your Steam account > Settings > Display interface > Enable access to the Linux desktop > Exit settings > Click the ON/OFF symbol in the top-right > Select ‘Switch the Desktop mode’

The Steam installation folder is in /home/steam/.local/share/Steam/

This error shows up if SteamOS fails to start the graphics driver and boot Steam. It can happen after a failed update, or if you have conflicting packages installed. The update installer should self-fix, but if you end up in a never-ending loop, try restoring from recovery and re-updating without cutting power. If all else fails, factory resetting your Steam Machine will fix the issue.

If an update repeatedly fails, try restoring from recovery and re-updating without cutting power. If this fails, factory resetting your Steam Machine will fix the issue.

A Steam Machine is a compact gaming computer that’s built for playing Steam games on SteamOS. Shop for Steam Machines on the Steam store, or learn to build your own.

No; just like a desktop computer, a Steam Machine downloads games from your Steam account (learn about Steam here) and installs them directly onto its hard drive. For this reason, you must have an internet connection to get the full gaming experience.

You can use any USB input device, including keyboard and mouse, various gamepads, Steam Controllers, etc. Keep in mind that each Steam game is different in its controller requirements – in other words, not all games on Steam can be played with a gamepad.

Hardware support for Steam Machines is provided by the manufacturer. If you own an Alienware Steam Machine, you can contact their support team here. If you have another brand of Steam Machine, search online for their support resources. If you’re lost, contact the seller for more information.

Generally speaking, you can install any OS that you like onto a Steam Machine. Each brand of Steam Machine offers something different. Check with the manufacturer of your Steam Machine for instructions on how best to achieve your desired setup.