Invalid CD Key

CD Key Information

Your CD Key will be either 13, 20, or 25 characters long - the "S7160880" code which appears on some CD Key stickers (after the CD Key) is a part number and is not part of the CD Key. If you are not certain you are working with the CD Key, or if you are not sure whether or not a game's CD Key may be registered on Steam, please see the Retail CD Keys topic.

Errors While Entering Your CD-Key

If your CD-key matches the XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX pattern, please note that some numbers and letters will not be used as part of the CD Key code:

   * The number 0 (try entering the letter Q or D instead)
   * The number 1 (try entering the letter I instead)
   * The letter O (try entering the letter Q or D instead)

Check instances of the letter B and number 8 to ensure these characters are not being confused.

Opposing Force CD-Keys

Opposing Force CD-keys cannot be registered through Steam. Opposing Force was included in a retail Half-Life package. The Half-Life CD-key included in the package will unlock all of the games included in that package, including Opposing Force.

Contact Steam Support

If you continue to receive an "Invalid CD Key" message after observing the recommendations above, please see the Contacting VALVe Billing and Support topic for instructions to contact Steam Support.

Related Articles

• CD Key Reset Process
• Retail CD Keys
• Duplicate CD Key