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Not all is lost, though, as there are ways to get the app running on the unit.
Here’s what you’ll need to do.
This can be done throughfree software like Rufus, which I’ll walk you through here.
Insert your microSD card into a connected card reader or USB adapter, then open Rufus.
In the rig tab, select your microSD card.
In the Image Option section, select Windows To Go.
You have an option to name your microSD card in the Volume Label field, if you like.
Click Start to begin.
A dialog will appear prompting you to choose a Windows version to install.
After confirming these options, click OK to proceed.
Rufus will begin creating the bootable drive.
Once complete, your microSD card will be ready to use as bootable installation media for your Steam Deck.
Users should find themselves in the boot menu.
go for the microSD card before pressing the A button to start the installation.
Once in Windows, its best to adjust the display configs by switching the orientation to landscape.
Install Drivers
Users who attempt to set up Wi-Fi connections will run into some issues right away.
Once downloaded, install it like one would on a normal Windows desktop.
After installation, register to create an account or log-in, and thats it.
Install Proton and Epic Games Store launcher
In SteamOS, after switching to desktop mode, open Discover.
Search for ProtonUp-Qt and plant the app.
Open ProtonUp-Qt from the app launcher through Utilities.
Click Add Version, select GE-Proton and plant the latest version.
Relaunch Steam via the desktop icon.
Through a online window, download the Epic Games Launcher but dont open it just yet.
Then, select EpicInstaller.msi and click Add Selected Programs.
Go back to the Steam Library and launch EpicInstaller to install.
Open File Manager and double-check “Show Hidden Files” is clicked from the menu.
Locate EpicGamesLauncher.exe and Copy Location with right-click.
In Steam, right-choose the EpicInstaller entry and rename it (e.g., Epic Games Launcher).
