How to find your Twitch stream key, which will let you start streaming games and access other features

Most streaming apps will ask you for your Twitch stream key before they let you go live this is how the apps know what account to broadcast to.
Some games also let you enter your Twitch stream key to unlock new features.
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Twitch is probably the most popular streaming site in the world. And there are dozens of different pieces of streaming software that will let you broadcast on Twitch .

However, before you can start streaming on Twitch , you'll need to set up that streaming software. And to complete that setup, you'll need to have your Twitch stream key.

Your Twitch stream key lets the software know where to send your video to. Every Twitch channel has one, and most streaming apps require you to enter your key before you start recording.

Many popular games also feature " Twitch integration," which means you can enter your Twitch stream key to connect the game to your account. This often unlocks new features and game modes, which usually let the Twitch chat interact with the game in some way.

You should keep your Twitch stream key private, as people can potentially use it to stream content you don't want to your account.

Here's how to find that stream key, using any internet browser on your Mac or PC.

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How to find your Twitch stream key

1. Open an internet browser on your Mac or PC and head to Twitch, and log in if you aren't already.

2. Click your circular profile icon in the top-right corner, and select "Creator Dashboard" from the drop-down menu.

3 How to find Twitch stream key Emma Witman/Business Insider

3. On your Creator Dashboard, click the gear FreeCell icon on the left side of the screen that's labeled "Preferences." If you don't see it, click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner of the screen to reveal it.

4. When you click "Preferences," more options will appear under it. Click "Channel."

4 How to find Twitch stream key Emma Witman/Business Insider

5. You'll see a page titled "Stream Key & Preferences." Your stream key will be at the top. You can copy your stream key without seeing it by clicking "Copy," or click "Show" to reveal and copy it manually.