As you get started streaming, you need to start setting up your software—be it OBS, Streamlabs OBS, or even XSplit’s Gamecaster.
With the recent changes in these apps, you can usually simply connect your Twitch account to have everything set up and ready to go. However, there are certain instances where you do end up needing your stream key.
Regardless of your reason, this guide will show you exactly how to find your Twitch stream key.
What is Your Stream Key?
Your stream key, which is a code that comes from Twitch, is what you import into whichever broadcasting software you use. The stream key is exactly what tells the broadcasting software to go live on your specific channel.
Where Can You Find The Stream Key?
Finding your stream key is incredibly easy. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly what you need to do.
First, log in to Twitch. Once you’re logged in, click on your profile picture or avatar. You can find this icon on the top rightmost corner of your screen.
From the drop-down menu, click on “Creator Dashboard.”
Once the page loads, you’ll see a hamburger menu on the left side of your screen. Click the hamburger icon, and navigate to “Preferences”. From “Preferences”, click on “Channel.”
Allow the page to load and you’ll find your Twitch stream key in the section labeled Primary Stream Key. Initially, your key will be displayed as a censored set of dots.
You can click on “Show” to see your stream key, though you can simply click the “Copy” button to get it on your clipboard. Then, you can paste it into your broadcasting software and you’re good to go.
How to Keep Your Stream Key Safe
Although you do have access to your stream key and you can pretty much do whatever you want with it, the fact is you should avoid sharing it at all costs. Unless you run a shared Twitch channel or you’re running some sort of stream event or gaming tournament, it’s best to keep your stream key a secret.
The reason for this is because your channel should remain yours—you should control how it is branded and presented. Only allow trusted people to stream on your channel because the moment others break Twitch terms of service, you are the one who will suffer the penalty.
Some notes to remember:
- Be wary of people you don’t know who are asking about your stream key.
- There may be phishing attempts for your stream key—it’s important to be careful about these too. Ignore any e-mails, messages, or websites asking for your Twitch login or Twitch stream key. Only use your stream key on Twitch and on your broadcasting software.
What Do You Do if Your Stream Key is Compromised?
There are certain instances where you may have been the victim of a hacking or phishing incident. If you believe your stream key has been compromised, you must change it immediately. Changing it is as easy as clicking “reset” next to the “copy” button in the above Primary Stream Key location.
If they are streaming on your channel, change your key immediately, and then start streaming. Doing this will kick them off of your channel. Change your Twitch password for good measure.
A good way to prevent getting hacked again in the future is to enable two-factor authorization. Enable it and change all of your account passwords, especially if you have reused your Twitch password elsewhere.
Hope this quick guide helped you find your stream key for Twitch!
If there’s anything else you’re stuck with regarding to streaming, feel free to check out our other guides, or just drop a comment below.
