Windows 10: Can I run a game installed to an external HDD on 2+ PCs?

Discus and support Can I run a game installed to an external HDD on 2+ PCs? in Windows 10 Gaming to solve the problem; Hi. I have installed a game to an external HDD via the Windows Store on my laptop. I want to then plug the HDD into my desktop and play the game... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Gaming' started by nitrogentanks, Nov 30, 2019.

  1. Can I run a game installed to an external HDD on 2+ PCs?


    Hi.


    I have installed a game to an external HDD via the Windows Store on my laptop.


    I want to then plug the HDD into my desktop and play the game there off the same external HDD.


    Using the same Microsoft account, is the laptop-installed game desktop playable, and is there something I must do to enable it to work? E.g. set library location on the desktop.


    For context: I have a limited mobile data internet connection, and use my parent's landline connection for the rare big download. To transfer a 40 GB game to my home I need to download it as above and play it via external HDD, made viable by USB 3.1. The only issue with that is finnicky DRM making the transfer of software a convoluted process.


    Cheers.

    :)
     
    nitrogentanks, Nov 30, 2019
    #1

  2. external HDD

    Hi,

    Usually, this problem occur due to software incompatibility or corrupted USB drivers. For us to better assist you, we would like to clarify the following:

    • Have you made any recent changes on your computer prior to the issue?
    • Which driver did you uninstall? Have you reinstall the driver? If yes, how did you reinstall the driver?
    • Have you check if the external HDD is visible in Device Manager?

    If the issue still persists after uninstalling some games, we suggest that you run the troubleshooter for hardware and devices. If you're using the latest Windows 10 version, follow these steps on how to run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter:

    • Click the Start button and select the Settings
      icon.
    • Choose Update & Security from the list.
    • Click Troubleshoot in the left pane of the window.
    • Under Find and fix other problems, select Hardware and Devices and click
      Run the troubleshooter.

    We're looking forward to your reply.
     
    Gerard Qui, Nov 30, 2019
    #2
  3. installing a game

    Hi,

    Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.
    We regret the inconvenience caused to you.


    Please try the steps given below and check if the issue persists:

    Step 1:

    I suggest you to right click on the game and try to run as administrator and check.

    Step 2: if that doesn't help I suggest you to install game in compatibility mode and check:

    Follow the steps below on how to install game in compatibility mode:

    1. Download the game from the manufacturer’s website and save it on your local disk.

    2. Right click on the setup file of the game and select “Properties”.

    3. Select “Compatibility” Tab.

    4. Place a check mark next to “Run this program in Compatibility mode” and select operating system from the drop down list.

    5. Let the game install and then check the functionality.

    Hope this helps.

    Thank you.
     
    Venkatesh1709, Nov 30, 2019
    #3
  4. niko084 Win User

    Can I run a game installed to an external HDD on 2+ PCs?

    Insurgency wont install and run for me....

    I have played and have fully updated CS and Half life 2....
    I am using the newest client and installed the SDK.

    I am completely blown away, if i click the desktop icon it starts the sdk and then closes, and it doesn't show up in my game list...

    First mod attempt install here, followed the directions step by step on the mods website...

    Any ideas?
     
    niko084, Nov 30, 2019
    #4
Thema:

Can I run a game installed to an external HDD on 2+ PCs?

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