Steam is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation that offers a vast library of games, software, and other digital content to its users. However, some games and content on Steam may only be available in certain regions due to licensing agreements, censorship laws, or other reasons. So, what do you do if you want to access content that is not available in your region? The solution is to change your Steam region. In this article, we will explain how to change Steam region and discuss the best VPNs for the job.
The first method to change your Steam region is through your account settings. Here are the steps:
Note that changing your Steam region through account settings may not work for everyone. Some users have reported that they were unable to change their region using this method even after providing a valid billing address in the new country. In such cases, you may need to use a VPN to change your Steam region.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a tool that allows you to change your IP address and location by connecting to a server in a different country. This makes a VPN an excellent tool for changing your Steam region. Here are the steps:
There are many VPN providers in the market, and choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In the next section, we will discuss the top 5 VPNs for changing Steam region and their features.
When choosing a VPN for changing Steam region, it is essential to consider factors such as speed, security, server locations, and ease of use. Here are the top 5 VPNs for changing Steam region that meet these criteria:
NordVPN is a popular VPN provider that offers high-speed connections, robust security features, and a large network of servers in over 60 countries. NordVPN is an excellent choice for changing Steam region as it offers optimized servers for streaming, including Steam. NordVPN also has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to use. NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN provider that offers lightning-fast speeds, military-grade encryption, and a vast network of servers in over 90 countries. ExpressVPN is a great choice for changing Steam region as it offers unlimited bandwidth and supports all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. ExpressVPN also has a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support available 24/7 via live chat.
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN provider that offers fast speeds, robust security features, and a network of servers in over 65 countries. Surfshark is an excellent choice for changing Steam region as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can use one account to connect multiple devices. Surfshark also has a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN provider that offers fast speeds and a network of servers in over 90 countries. CyberGhost is a great choice for changing Steam region as it offers dedicated servers for streaming, including Steam, and supports all major platforms. CyberGhost also has a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support available 24/7 via live chat and email.5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN provider that offers fast speeds, robust security features, and a network of servers in over 70 countries. PIA is an excellent choice for changing Steam region as it offers unlimited bandwidth and supports all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. PIA also has a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
When choosing the best VPN for Steam, consider the following features:
1. Server Network: Look for a VPN that has a large and diverse server network. This ensures that you have a wide range of server locations to choose from, allowing you to connect to a server near your desired Steam region. A well-distributed server network helps to minimize latency and provides a smoother gaming experience.
2. Connection Speed and Performance: Gaming requires a stable and fast internet connection. Test the VPN's connection speeds and performance by checking for any noticeable slowdowns or lag. Look for VPNs with dedicated gaming servers or optimized server configurations to ensure minimal impact on your gaming performance.
3. Server Availability for Region-Specific Content: If you wish to access region-specific content on Steam, such as game releases or exclusive offers, make sure the VPN has servers located in those regions. This allows you to connect to servers in the desired region and access content that may be restricted in your current location.
4. Security Features: While gaming, it's important to prioritize security. Choose a VPN that offers robust encryption protocols, such as AES-256, to protect your online activities and personal information. Additional security features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and malware blocking can provide an extra layer of security.
5. Compatibility with Devices and Platforms: Ensure that the VPN is compatible with the devices and platforms you intend to use for gaming. Look for VPNs that offer dedicated apps or support manual configurations for popular gaming platforms, such as Windows, macOS, or gaming consoles.
6. User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface makes it easier to connect to servers, switch locations, and customize settings. Look for VPNs with intuitive apps and user interfaces that simplify the process of setting up and using the VPN for gaming.
7. Customer Support: Consider the quality and availability of customer support. In case you encounter any issues while using the VPN for Steam, responsive customer support can be valuable. Look for VPN providers that offer 24/7 live chat support or other reliable customer support channels.
By considering these features, you can choose a VPN that enhances your gaming experience on Steam, providing security, speed, and access to region-specific content.
Yes, you can switch your Steam region back to your original location after using a VPN. To do this, simply disconnect from the VPN server and revert to your original internet connection. Launch Steam, access the Steam settings, and look for the option to change your region or location. Select your original location and save the changes. Steam will update your region, and you should regain access to content and features specific to your original location.
There are several VPNs that are known for their ability to change Steam region effectively. Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost. These VPNs offer a wide range of server locations, strong encryption, fast speeds, and reliable performance. However, it's important to note that while VPNs can help change your Steam region, it's essential to use them responsibly and in compliance with Steam's terms of service.
To change your Steam region with a VPN, follow these general steps: First, sign up for a reputable VPN service that offers servers in the region you want to switch to. Download and install the VPN app on your device. Launch the VPN app and connect to a server in the desired region. Once the VPN connection is established, launch Steam and access the Steam settings. Look for the option to change your region or location within the Steam settings. Select the desired region and save the changes. Steam will then update your region, and you should have access to region-specific content.
Changing your Steam region is essential if you want to access content that is not available in your country. You can do this by changing your region through your account settings or by using a VPN. When choosing a VPN for changing Steam region, it is crucial to consider factors such as speed, security, server locations, and ease of use. The top 5 VPNs for changing Steam region that we have discussed in this article are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access. These VPNs offer fast speeds, robust security features, and a large network of servers in multiple countries, making them ideal for changing Steam region. So, choose the best VPN for your needs and start enjoying all the content that Steam has to offer!