SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system that Valve, the creator of the popular Steam gaming platform, developed. SteamOS aims to provide a console-like gaming experience on standard PC hardware, as well as on Valve's own Steam Machines and Steam Deck devices. In this article, we will examine the features and benefits of SteamOS, and how it compares to other operating systems.
What Is SteamOS?
SteamOS is a public release of Valve's Linux-based operating system, which is based on Debian 8 (code named Debian Jessie) for SteamOS 1.0 and 2.0, and on Arch Linux for SteamOS 3.0 . SteamOS is optimized for gaming performance and compatibility, and integrates the Steam game client and the Big Picture mode, which provides a user-friendly interface for navigating games, media, and settings on a TV screen or a handheld device .
SteamOS is an open Linux platform that lets the user have full control of their system. Users can install new software or content as they wish, as well as access the standard Linux desktop if they prefer. SteamOS also supports streaming games from another PC running Steam, as well as playing local multiplayer games with up to four controllers.
How to Install SteamOS?
There are two different installation methods for SteamOS: the automated installation and the expert installation. The automated installation is the recommended method, which installs the default disk configuration and erases all content on the target computer. The expert installation uses the Debian Installer, which allows for some customization after an automated install step.
To install SteamOS, the user needs to download the SteamOS installation file from the official website, unzip it to a blank, FAT32-formatted USB stick with an MBR partition, and boot the target machine from the USB stick. The user then needs to select the installation method from the menu, and follow the instructions on the screen. After the installation is complete, the system will reboot and automatically log on and install Steam. The user will need an internet connection for this step, and may need to configure their network settings if they are using WiFi. After Steam finishes installing, the system will reboot again and create a backup of the system partition. The user can then start using SteamOS and enjoy their games.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of SteamOS?
SteamOS has several advantages and disadvantages compared to other operating systems, especially for gaming purposes. Some of the advantages are:
- SteamOS is optimized for gaming performance and compatibility, and supports a large library of games that run natively on Linux, as well as some Windows games that can run through Proton, a compatibility layer that uses Wine and other technologies.
- SteamOS provides a console-like gaming experience on standard PC hardware, as well as on Valve's own Steam Machines and Steam Deck devices, which are designed to run SteamOS and offer various hardware configurations and price points.
- SteamOS is an open Linux platform that gives the user full control of their system, and allows them to customize it as they want, as well as install other software or content that they need.
- SteamOS supports streaming games from another PC running Steam, as well as playing local multiplayer games with up to four controllers, which can enhance the social aspect of gaming.
Some of the disadvantages are:
- SteamOS is not intended for non-technical users, and requires some knowledge and skills to install and maintain. The installation process can be complicated and risky, and may not support all hardware configurations. The user may also need to troubleshoot some issues or update some drivers manually.
- SteamOS is not a replacement for a desktop operating system, and is mainly designed for the living room experience. The user may not have access to some features or applications that they are used to on other operating systems, such as web browsers, office suites, or media players. The user can still access the standard Linux desktop, but it may not be as user-friendly or optimized as SteamOS.
- SteamOS does not support all games that are available on Steam, especially those that are exclusive to Windows or other platforms. Some Windows games that can run through Proton may have lower performance or compatibility issues compared to running them natively on Windows.
Conclusion
SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system that is optimized for gaming performance and compatibility, and provides a console-like gaming experience on standard PC hardware, as well as on Valve's own Steam Machines and Steam Deck devices. SteamOS is an open Linux platform that leaves the user in full control of their system, and allows them to install new software or content as they want. SteamOS also supports streaming games from another PC running Steam, as well as playing local multiplayer games with up to four controllers. However, SteamOS is not intended for non-technical users, and requires some knowledge and skills to install and maintain. SteamOS is not a replacement for a desktop operating system, and is mainly designed for the living room experience. SteamOS does not support all games that are available on Steam, especially those that are exclusive to Windows or other platforms.
SteamOS is a unique and innovative operating system that offers a different way of gaming on Linux. It may not be suitable for everyone, but it may appeal to those who are looking for a console-like gaming experience on their PC, or who want to explore the possibilities of an open Linux platform. SteamOS is still in development, and may improve over time with more features, updates, and support. If you are interested in trying SteamOS, you can download it from the official website, and follow the installation instructions carefully. Alternatively, you can wait for the release of the Steam Deck, which is expected to launch in late 2022 or early 2023, and which will run SteamOS 3.0 by default.