Valve has launched a new feature in its latest Steam and Steam Deck betas that allows users to transfer game files from one PC to another over a local area network. This feature is called local network game transfers, and it aims to help Steam Deck users who have slow internet connections or bandwidth caps. With local network game transfers, Steam Deck owners can bypass the need to connect to a Steam content server over the internet, which reduces internet traffic and lessens the time it takes to install games and updates.
According to Valve, this feature is particularly useful for multi-user Steam households, dorms, LAN parties, and any other situations where users may have limited bandwidth or data caps. After installing the new software on the devices, Steam will first check if it can transfer a game installation or set of update files over the local network before contacting a public Steam content server. If one of the devices involved in the transfer is disconnected from the local network, Steam will download any necessary files from the internet.
The feature is set to work only between devices logged into the same Steam account by default, but it’s also possible to transfer files between friends on the same local area network or to any user on the same network. This is particularly useful during a LAN tournament. Valve has published a FAQ on the Steam website with more information about local network game transfers, including details on some of the feature’s limitations.
This new feature is a significant addition to Steam and Steam Deck, making it more accessible to users who may have slow or limited internet connections. It’s a move that will no doubt be appreciated by Steam Deck users who want to take advantage of the device’s portability without being hampered by internet connectivity issues.
