MoleTun on Steam Deck
Steam Deck Compatibility
MoleTun works on Steam Deck in Desktop Mode. Since Steam Deck runs Linux (SteamOS), you'll use the Linux version of MoleTun.
Installation
Switch to Desktop Mode
Hold the Power button → Switch to Desktop Mode. Or go to Steam → Power → Switch to Desktop.
Download MoleTun
Open Firefox and download the Linux AppImage from the MoleTun website.
Make It Executable
Right-click the downloaded file → Properties → Permissions → check "Is executable". Or run in Konsole: chmod +x MoleTun*.AppImage
Run MoleTun
Double-click the AppImage to launch. Create or join a room as usual.
Adding to Steam (Optional)
To launch MoleTun from Gaming Mode:
- •In Desktop Mode, open Steam
- •Click "Add a Game" → "Add a Non-Steam Game"
- •Browse to the AppImage location
- •Add it, then return to Gaming Mode
Gaming Setup
Games via Steam
Most Steam games work normally. Launch MoleTun first, connect to your room, then launch your game.
Games via Proton
Windows games running through Proton work the same way—MoleTun handles the network layer at the OS level.
Games with LAN Requirements
For games like Minecraft Java or Factorio that need direct IP connections:
- •Note your MoleTun IP in the app
- •Share it with friends for direct connection
Performance Tips
- •Use WiFi 5GHz: Steam Deck's 5GHz WiFi is faster and less congested
- •Dock if possible: Ethernet via dock provides the most stable connection
- •Close background apps: More resources for gaming
- •Battery vs plugged: Performance is better when plugged in
Steam Deck's networking works great with MoleTun. The main limitation is the handheld's processing power for demanding games, not the network connection.
Troubleshooting
MoleTun Won't Start
- •Ensure the file has executable permissions
- •Try running from Konsole to see error messages
- •Check if any other networking tool is active
Can't Connect to Room
- •Verify internet connectivity
- •Check if SteamOS firewall is blocking (rare, but possible after updates)
- •Try creating a new room
Game Can't Find Network
- •Launch MoleTun before the game
- •Verify you can see room members in MoleTun
- •Some games need to be restarted after MoleTun connects
Does MoleTun work in Gaming Mode?▼
MoleTun itself needs Desktop Mode to run. However, once running, you can switch to Gaming Mode and the connection stays active. Add MoleTun as a non-Steam game to launch from Gaming Mode directly.
Can I play with friends on PC?▼
Absolutely. MoleTun creates a cross-platform virtual network. Your Steam Deck can connect with Windows, Mac, and Linux players.
Will this work with emulated games?▼
Yes. Any game that supports LAN can use MoleTun, including games running through EmuDeck or other emulation setups.
What about Steam Deck OLED?▼
Same process works on Steam Deck OLED. The hardware is compatible with MoleTun.