How to Install Steam on Fedora 40 or 39

Steam is a leading digital distribution platform for video games, offering access to a vast library of titles, community features, and tools for both gamers and developers. Steam’s integration with Linux has grown significantly, providing a smooth gaming experience with support for a wide range of games, including many popular AAA titles. It offers features like cloud saves, achievements, and an in-game overlay, making it a comprehensive platform for managing and playing games.

On Fedora 40 or 39, Steam can be installed through RPM Fusion, a repository that provides a wide range of software not included in Fedora’s default repositories, ensuring you get the latest stable version of Steam with all necessary dependencies. Alternatively, Steam can be installed via Flatpak from Flathub, which offers a sandboxed environment, adding an extra layer of security and ensuring that Steam runs independently of the rest of your system. Both methods are effective, but each comes with its own set of advantages depending on your system setup and preferences. This guide will walk you through the installation of Steam using both methods, helping you choose the best approach for your gaming needs on Fedora.

Method 1: Install Steam via RPM Fusion

Update Fedora Packages Before Steam Installation

Before proceeding with the Steam installation, it is crucial to update your Fedora system. This step ensures that all existing packages are up to date, providing a stable foundation for new installations.

Open your command line terminal and run the following command to update your system:

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

This command refreshes the repository metadata and upgrades all your system’s packages, reducing potential compatibility issues with the Steam installation.

Import RPM Fusion for Steam Installation

RPM Fusion is a widely used third-party repository that offers additional software packages not available in Fedora’s official repositories. For Steam installation, you must include free and non-free repositories from RPM Fusion.

Firstly, to import the RPM Fusion Free repository, use this command:

sudo dnf install \
  https://download1.rpmfusion.org/free/fedora/rpmfusion-free-release-$(rpm -E %fedora).noarch.rpm

This command adds the free repository, which contains open-source software.

Next, incorporate the RPM Fusion Non-Free repository, which is necessary for Steam, by executing:

sudo dnf install \
  https://download1.rpmfusion.org/nonfree/fedora/rpmfusion-nonfree-release-$(rpm -E %fedora).noarch.rpm

The non-free repository includes proprietary software, and Steam falls under this category.

Install Steam via DNF Command

Once the RPM Fusion repositories are successfully integrated, you can install Steam on your Fedora system. Enter the following command in your terminal:

sudo dnf install steam

This command uses the DNF package manager to fetch and install Steam from the newly added repositories.

Method 2: Install Steam via Flatpak and Flathub

Verify Flatpak Installation

Flatpak, a software deployment and package management system, offers a flexible and secure way to manage applications on Linux, including Fedora. Most Fedora systems come with Flatpak pre-installed.

However, if you’ve removed it, reinstall Flatpak using this command:

sudo dnf install flatpak -y

This reinstalls Flatpak, setting the stage for Steam installation.

Enable Flathub for Steam Installation

Flathub – a repository for Flatpak applications – must be enabled to install Steam. Use the following command to add Flathub to your Flatpak configuration:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

This step is crucial as Flathub hosts the Steam package for Flatpak.

Install Steam via Flatpak Command

After setting up Flathub, install Steam by executing:

flatpak install flathub com.valvesoftware.Steam

Flatpak Steam Troubleshooting Tips

Common Issue: Flathub Remote Error

A typical error encountered is:

"error: Unable to load summary from remote flathub: Can't fetch summary from disabled remote 'flathub,"

To resolve this, enable Flathub with:

flatpak remote-modify --enable flathub

This command re-enables the Flathub repository, allowing the installation to proceed.

Potential File Access Issue

For system file access, use the override command carefully. Only proceed if you have the necessary system permissions:

sudo flatpak override com.valvesoftware.Steam --filesystem=host

This command grants Steam access to the host’s file system, which may be required for certain functionalities. However, exercise caution and use it only when essential to avoid security risks.

Launching Steam Gaming Client

After installing Steam on your Fedora system, you can run it in several different ways.

CLI Commands to Launch Steam

For users who prefer command-line interaction, launching Steam is straightforward.

To launch Steam via the terminal, enter:

steam

This command is applicable if you have installed Steam through standard repositories or RPM Fusion.

For Flatpak users, the command differs slightly. Use:

flatpak run com.valvesoftware.Steam

This command ensures that Steam runs within the Flatpak environment, maintaining the security and isolation benefits provided by Flatpak.

GUI Method to Launch Steam

Launching Steam is just as easy for users who prefer a graphical interface. Follow these steps:

Open your system’s application menu. This can typically be done in your desktop environment by clicking “Activities” or a similar menu.
Click “Show Applications” or an equivalent option to view all installed applications.
Locate “Steam” in the list of applications.
Click on the “Steam” icon to launch the client.

First-Time Steam Setup Wizard

Automatic Update Check and Download

When you launch Steam on Fedora Linux, the client automatically checks for and downloads any available updates. This step is crucial as it ensures your Steam installation is up-to-date with the latest features and bug fixes.

During this process, the Steam user interface will display the status of the update, keeping you informed of its progress.

Update Completion and Account Sign-In

The duration of the update process depends on your internet connection speed. While Steam updates, you can continue using your computer. However, maintaining an active internet connection during this period is essential to ensure a successful update.

Once the update is complete, Steam will launch, prompting you to either sign in to your existing account or create a new one.

Exploring Steam Once Signed-In

After signing in, you’re ready to explore the Steam platform. Here, you can browse and purchase games, connect with friends, and enjoy various community features. Your journey into the vast world of gaming and community interaction begins here.

Managing Steam

Update Steam

Regular updates are key to maintaining a smooth and efficient gaming experience on Steam. These updates enhance performance and introduce new features and bug fixes. The update process varies based on the installation method.

DNF Update Command For Steam

For Steam installations done via DNF or RPM Fusion, update Steam along with your system packages using this command in the terminal:

sudo dnf update --refresh

This command refreshes your repository data and ensures all packages, including Steam, are up to date.

Flatpak Update Command For Steam

Use the following command to update Steam if you installed it using Flatpak:

flatpak update

This command checks and updates all installed Flatpak applications, ensuring Steam and other apps are current.

Remove Steam

You might need to uninstall Steam in some instances. The process depends on your initial installation method.

DNF Remove Command For Steam

To remove Steam installed via DNF or RPM Fusion, execute this command:

sudo dnf remove steam

This command not only uninstalls Steam but also removes any unused dependencies associated with it, freeing up system resources.

Flathub Remove Command For Steam

For Steam installations via Flatpak, use this command to uninstall:

flatpak uninstall --delete-data com.valvesoftware.Steam

This command ensures that Steam and its associated data are entirely removed from your Fedora system.

Final Thoughts

In summary, installing Steam on Fedora through RPM Fusion offers a smooth and integrated experience, giving you easy access to the latest stable build within the Fedora ecosystem. Alternatively, the Flatpak option from Flathub provides a more secure, isolated environment, perfect for those who prioritize extra system protection. Both methods ensure that you can enjoy a robust gaming experience with access to Steam’s vast library on Fedora. Keeping Steam updated through either channel will ensure your installation remains secure, up-to-date, and compatible with the latest games and features.

Useful Links

Here are some useful links related to using Steam:

Steam Store: Visit the Steam Store to explore and purchase games, software, and other digital content.
Steam Community: Join the Steam Community to connect with other gamers, participate in discussions, and share your experiences.
Steam for Linux Community: Access the Steam for Linux Community for discussions, support, and resources specifically for Linux users.