How to Use the Command 'steamcmd' (with examples)

Steamcmd is a command-line version of the Steam client, designed primarily for server administrators and advanced users who need to automate tasks related to the installation, update, and management of Steam applications. This tool is particularly useful for managing game servers and deploying Steam applications in a programmatic way, bypassing the typical graphical user interface and allowing for greater flexibility and speed of operations.

Use Case 1: Install or Update an Application Anonymously

Code:

steamcmd +login anonymous +app_update appid +quit

Motivation:

This use case is particularly useful for users who need to install or update a Steam application without the requirement of a personal Steam account, typically game server administrators. For instance, when managing a dedicated server for a multiplayer game, administrators might prefer to execute updates or installations without entering credentials, especially for applications that do not require ownership verification.

Explanation:

• steamcmd: This launches the Steam command-line client.
• +login anonymous: This logs into Steam anonymously, meaning no username and password are required. Suitable for scenarios where user-specific content is not needed.
• +app_update appid: This command installs or updates the application specified by the appid. The appid is a unique identifier used by Steam to reference a specific title.
• +quit: This term instructs steamcmd to quit after completing the operations. It ensures that the command-line tool does not linger unnecessarily.

Example Output:

Connecting anonymously to Steam Public...Logged in OK
Waiting for user info...OK
Success! App 'appid' fully installed.

Use Case 2: Install or Update an Application Using Specified Credentials

Code:

steamcmd +login username +app_update appid +quit

Motivation:

This use case is essential when the application in question requires ownership, or when content that is tied to a specific user’s account needs to be accessed. For instance, installing or updating games that require verification of ownership through a valid Steam account. This ensures that installations and updates are done securely and in compliance with Steam’s user policies.

Explanation:

• steamcmd: Initiates the Steam command-line client.
• +login username: Commands steamcmd to log in using a specific Steam account username. A password prompt will be displayed or can be pre-configured for automated scripts.
• +app_update appid: Requests the installation or update of the application linked to the provided appid.
• +quit: Directs the steamcmd to terminate once the task is completed, optimizing resource utilization without unnecessary processes.

Example Output:

Logging in user 'username' to Steam Public...
Password: 
Success! App 'appid' already up to date.

Use Case 3: Install an Application for a Specific Platform

Code:

steamcmd +@sSteamCmdForcePlatformType windows +login anonymous +app_update appid validate +quit

Motivation:

There are instances where an application must be installed specifically for a platform different from the host system. For example, an administrator may want to prepare a Windows-based game server from a Linux machine. By specifying the platform, this command ensures that the appropriate binaries and dependencies for the desired operating system are retrieved and installed.

Explanation:

• steamcmd: Executes the Steam command-line client.
• +@sSteamCmdForcePlatformType windows: Forces the platform type to Windows, making steamcmd download Windows-specific files. Useful for cross-platform server preparation.
• +login anonymous: Logs into Steam without credentials, useful for server applications that permit anonymous access.
• +app_update appid: Downloads or updates the specified application using the appid.
• validate: An additional command that ensures that the files are valid and correctly installed. This checks and fixes any discrepancies.
• +quit: Ensures that steamcmd will exit post-operation, maintaining efficient resource usage.

Example Output:

Environment set to platform 'windows'
Connecting anonymously to Steam Public...Logged in OK
Waiting for user info...OK
Downloading update (0 of 12345 MB)...
Success! App 'appid' fully installed on platform 'windows'.

Conclusion:

Steamcmd is an indispensable tool for managing Steam applications, particularly in server environments where GUI access is limited or when automation is desired. From anonymous installations to platform-specific deployment, steamcmd provides a versatile command-line interface, making it easier and more efficient to manage tasks commonly associated with game server administration. Each example illustrated above demonstrates a unique capability of steamcmd, offering solutions to various real-world requirements.