How to set, change and reset your SteamOS / Steam Deck desktop root password

If you are going to be messing round with SteamOS on Steam Deck or different gadgets, there are occasions it should want a root password in Desktop Mode. Here is the right way to set it, change it and reset it in case you forgot it.

Most issues will not want a password, like installing extra software normally, however sure extra superior issues will want one.

The way to set a password

That is the straightforward half. Swap into Desktop Mode by way of the ability menu.

From right here load up the Konsole terminal app.

Kind in “passwd” after which it should ask you twice to enter a password of your selection and also you’re all set.

All accomplished! Password set!

The way to change your password

So long as you bear in mind it, that is additionally very easy to do.

Precisely the identical steps as above, however it should ask you to enter your present password first earlier than altering it.

The way to reset a forgotten password

That is the trickier half. Not like accounts on an internet site, you possibly can’t simply get a hyperlink to reset your password in your electronic mail. This manner although would not require any additional downloading. Only a USB keyboard connected by way of a dock or hub, some endurance and cautious studying / typing.

I’ve checked and this works with the newest SteamOS 3.6.21 obtainable on the time of information publishing. Here is what to do:

Shut down your Steam Deck. Do not put it to sleep, absolutely shut it down.

Whereas holding the Fast Entry Menu button (the three dots) you faucet the Energy Button as soon as. This can carry up the Boot Menu. From right here choose the third possibility of Present + Boot Menu.

Go away it on the primary line “SteamOS” and press “e” in your keyboard to edit this boot choice.

Press the Down arrow in your keyboard to get to the road that begins “steamenv_boot”, then press END in your keyboard to go to the top of this line.

Paying cautious consideration to your spelling right here sort in: systemd.debug_shell (it will not be saved and will likely be eliminated whenever you reboot so nothing to fret about in future)

Then press CTRL + X which can get it besides.

Await SteamOS to load up and press CTRL+ALT+F9 to carry up the terminal. Right here you possibly can enter passwd deck (the username for desktop mode is “deck”).