How to Activate a Steam Key (2026 Guide)

A Steam key is a 15-character code (it looks like XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX) that adds a game permanently to your Steam library. Once activated, the game is yours: download it on any PC where you log in to Steam, as many times as you like.

Before you start

Check the platform badge on the product page: it must say Steam.
Check the region: an EU key activates on Steam accounts registered in Europe. Read more in our guide to region locks.
For DLC, make sure the base game is already in your library.

Activate in the Steam app

Open Steam and log in.
In the top menu click Games → Activate a Product on Steam…
Click Next, accept the subscriber agreement and paste the key.
Confirm — the game appears in your library and you can start the download.

Activate in a browser

No Steam client nearby? Log in on the Steam website and open store.steampowered.com/account/registerkey. Paste the key, confirm, and the game will be waiting in your library the next time you open Steam.

Common errors and fixes

“Invalid product code”

Usually a typo. Copy the key straight from your order e-mail instead of typing it, and watch for look-alike characters such as O and 0.

“Duplicate product code”

The key has already been used. If it was not you, contact us with the order number — see the Refund Policy.

“Product code not valid in your region”

The key is locked to another region than your Steam account. Always check the region badge before buying.

“Too many activation attempts”

Steam pauses activations after several failed tries. Wait about an hour and try again with the correct key.

Steam Gift or Altergift?Some products are delivered as a gift link instead of a key. Open the link from your e-mail while logged in to Steam and accept the gift — no code needed.