How to Install Steam Deck Tools on Windows

Updated

Download the latest SteamDeckTools--setup.exe from the project's GitHub Releases page and run it. The installer handles the required dependencies for you. Only if you use the portable archive do you need to manually install Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, Rivatuner Statistics Server, and ViGEmBus first. Before installing, uninstall or disable SWICD, GlosSI, and HidHide, since the project advises against running them alongside it.

Before You Install

The toolset is provided on a best-effort basis and, per the project's own README, "can break your SteamDeck." It also uses kernel memory manipulation through inpoutx64.dll, which can trigger antivirus and anti-cheat software. Keep that in mind before proceeding, especially if you play online games.

Prepare the following:

  • Installer path (recommended): the latest SteamDeckTools--setup.exe from GitHub Releases.
  • Portable path: the archive plus manual installs of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, Rivatuner Statistics Server, and ViGEmBus.
  • Conflicting software removed or disabled: SWICD, GlosSI, and HidHide.

Installation Steps

Option A: Use the Setup Executable

  1. Open the project's GitHub Releases page and download the newest SteamDeckTools--setup.exe.
  2. Run the executable on your Windows Steam Deck.
  3. Follow the installer prompts. The setup is expected to bring in the dependencies the tools need.
  4. Launch the individual applications you want (Fan Control, Performance Overlay, Power Control, Steam Controller) and confirm they start.

Expected result: the tools launch and can read system stats or apply settings. If an app fails to start or shows missing-component errors, a dependency is likely absent — install the three dependencies listed above and retry.

Option B: Use the Portable Archive

  1. Download the portable archive from GitHub Releases and extract it.
  2. Manually install each dependency:
    • Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
    • Rivatuner Statistics Server
    • ViGEmBus
  3. Run the tools from the extracted folder.
  4. Verify each application opens and functions.

Skipping any dependency can cause the tools to malfunction, since the README states they are required for proper operation.

Decide on Kernel Features Before Playing Online

By default the applications do not use kernel-level features. If you request a change that might trigger anti-cheat detection, the application asks you to acknowledge it. For online games, the README recommends disabling kernel features and treating these settings as safe:

Application Safe setting
Fan Control Use Default FAN
Performance Overlay OSD
Kernel Drivers DISABLED

Disabling kernel drivers costs you some functionality:

  • Fan Control: the optimised SteamOS fan curve is unavailable.
  • Performance Overlay: CPU % and MHz, GPU MHz, and APU wattage are no longer shown.
  • Power Control: you lose the ability to change TDP and CPU settings.

The README also warns that kernel manipulation could result in interference with anti-cheat systems, including the possibility of a suspension or ban.

Common Stumbling Points

  • Missing dependencies on portable installs. The setup executable is the simpler route; the portable archive requires all three dependencies installed by hand.
  • Leftover controller software. SWICD, GlosSI, and HidHide should be uninstalled or disabled, or they may conflict with Steam Controller support.
  • Antivirus or anti-cheat flags. Because of inpoutx64.dll, security software may react. Decide on kernel features deliberately before launching online games.
  • Beta builds. The latest beta is also published on GitHub Releases; use it only if you need newer fixes and accept the added risk.

For help or discussion, the project points to the #windows channel of the Steam Deck Discord.