• The Twitch stream key allows you to stream directly to your Twitch channel from unrelated broadcasting software or games
  • You should never share your stream key
  • If your stream key becomes compromised, you’ll need to take action immediately to reset your Twitch stream key as a safeguard

Launched in 2011, Twitch has over seven million streamers currently registered. With so many users, it makes sense that you’d want ways to stream your gaming from as many different places as possible so that you can create variety in your content. However, no one wants the risk of random hackers having access to your stream account, so the “stream key” was developed.

In this article, we will discuss what a stream key is, why you need it, where to find it and how to protect it.

What is a stream key?

Twitch Studio and a few broadcasting platforms allow you to stream your gaming sessions on Twitch by simply logging in to your account and hitting the Go Live button. With some other software, though, you’ll need to submit an authorization code that allows them to sync with your Twitch account. Some games allow direct integration. These will require your authorization code, too.

Your Twitch stream key is that authorization code. It identifies you as the owner of the Twitch account so that only your content is given to your viewers.

There are a few things to note. First, you’ll need to be sure that your Twitch account has two-factor authentication turned on. You can do this at twitch.tv/settings/security. Then, depending on which software or program you’re using, you’ll need to figure out how to navigate to the settings that accept your stream key.

How to find your Twitch stream key

Before you begin, be sure that your streaming software or game with integration is open to the right setting. Then, on your desktop, log into Twitch to get started and follow these steps:

  • Click your avatar on the top right-hand side of the screen
  • Select Creator Dashboard from the drop-down menu
  • On the left-hand side menu, go to the bottom and choose the Settings option (with the gear icon)
  • Click the option: Stream
  • Your stream key is located at the top under Primary Stream Key
  • As an extra layer of security, it will be hidden behind dots — click Show if you need to see it
  • Click the purple Copy button next to it
  • Paste the key into the appropriate place in your broadcasting software

Sharing your stream key

It’s strongly recommended never to share your Twitch stream key. If there’s a circumstance under which you want to let someone else stream onto your Twitch channel, there’s an option to add an additional person without sharing your stream key. Log into your stream account and follow these steps:

  • Click your avatar on the top right corner of the screen
  • Select Creator Dashboard from the drop-down menu
  • On the left-hand side menu, go to the bottom and choose the Settings option (with the gear icon)
  • Click the option: Stream
  • Scroll down the page to click on: People who can stream to your channel
  • A new page will open and prompt you to enter their email address

Once you’ve completed these steps, Twitch will send an email to them. It will provide a unique Twitch stream key that allows them to stream to your Twitch channel. You can advise them to follow the steps outlined here in the previous section. Later, if you want to end their access, just return to the same place in your dashboard and follow the prompts to remove additional people.

Once you’ve become a Twitch Partner, one benefit is Squad Stream. This allows you to add people to your Twitch stream without creating additional stream keys.

Changing your stream key

Take caution to never inadvertently show your stream key while navigating around during a stream. Don’t share it with anyone, either. If someone gains access to your stream key, they will be able to stream any content, including content that could get you into trouble with Twitch standards. They would also be able to change the financial settings and other important settings.

If you need to reset your stream key, follow the steps above to find your stream key. When you get to the step where you can see your stream key and there’s an option to copy it, choose the reset button instead. Ideally, you should begin a new stream after resetting your stream key. This will automatically kick out anyone who might be using it. You’ll need to change your stream key on any software or games that you’ve already applied it to.

Stream away

It’s worth mentioning that there is no way to find your Twitch stream key from your mobile device currently. You’ll have to work from the desktop application to find your stream key or make changes to it. However, once you’ve synced your accounts, you won’t need to go through this process again unless you reset your stream key later. You’ll be able to stream to your Twitch account from anywhere with whichever device you’re logged into.