Bought a Steam key and not sure what to do with it? Activating a Steam key takes about a minute, and the game then lives in your Steam library for good. Here is the full process on PC, plus answers to the questions buyers ask most: where to enter the code, what to do when it will not activate, and whether global keys are the real deal.
What is a Steam key?
A Steam key is a string of letters and numbers, usually in the format AAAAA-BBBBB-CCCCC, that unlocks a game on Steam. Once you redeem it on your account, the game is tied to that account permanently and downloads like any other Steam purchase. You do not need the key again after activation.
How to redeem a Steam key in the desktop app
This is the most reliable method and works on Windows and Mac.
- Open the Steam app and sign in to your account.
- Click Games in the top menu, then choose Activate a Product on Steam.
- Click through the prompt and accept the subscriber agreement.
- Type or paste your product key exactly as shown, including the dashes.
- Steam registers the game to your library. Click Install to download it.
How to redeem on the Steam website
No app handy? You can activate in a browser.
- Go to the official Steam site and sign in.
- Open your account page and choose the option to activate a product.
- Enter your key and confirm. The game appears in your library, ready to install through the app later.
Steam key will not activate? Common fixes
- Invalid product code: check for typos, especially 0 versus O and 1 versus I. Paste rather than type if you can.
- Already activated: the key has been used. Keep your purchase confirmation so we can help if you bought from us.
- Region locked: some keys only activate in certain countries. Our keys are global unless a listing says otherwise.
- Not available in your region: usually a regional restriction rather than a faulty key.
Are global Steam keys legit?
Yes. A global key is simply a key with no regional lock, so it activates anywhere Steam operates. The game itself is identical to a copy bought straight from the Steam store: same files, same updates, same multiplayer. The word global describes where the key works, not a different or lesser version of the game. We explain the same idea for consoles in our guide on whether global Xbox codes are legit.
Do I keep the game forever?
Once activated, the game is permanently attached to your Steam account, just like a direct purchase. You can uninstall and reinstall it as often as you like, on any PC where you sign in.
Steam keys vs Xbox codes
The redemption idea is the same, only the storefront differs. If you also buy console titles, our step by step Xbox code guide walks through the console and phone methods. Browse all our digital game keys for both PC and Xbox.
Quick FAQ
Where do I enter a Steam key? In the Steam app under Games, then Activate a Product on Steam, or on the Steam website account page.
Can I gift a redeemed key? Once activated to your account it cannot be moved, so activate it on the account you want to keep it on.
Is a CD key the same as a Steam key? For Steam games, yes. CD key, product key and activation code all refer to the same thing.
Need a hand with a key you bought from us? Email support@digistoresg.com with your order details and we will sort it out.
