<aside> 📢 Current state of Parsec Soda as of June 6, 2023 Soda no longer works. You will need to host with Parsec and share your computer links.

</aside>

When using Parsec Soda and Steam at the same time, a gamepad may be able to access mouse & on-screen keyboard. This could lead to someone compromising your computer if you leave it unattended.

It may also be possible for a gamepad to open Big Picture Mode and access the Steam Store, your friends & chat, your account settings and also shut down your computer.

Some of the Windows UI like the Start Menu and Settings can also be navigated by a gamepad if they manage to open it.

Disable controllers in the start menu

How to prevent it

The number one tip to avoid this is to never leave your computer unattended while allowing people access to it.

Do not use Steam Big Picture Mode

Never launch Big Picture Mode. It was made to be controlled by gamepads.

When Steam is in focus. Guide button presses will also open Big Picture Mode.

Disable Guide Button input in Soda

If you are using https://github.com/FlavioFS/ParsecSoda/ then you need to use Button Lock to disable it.

If you are using https://github.com/v6ooo/ParsecSodaV/ or https://github.com/Smash-Soda-Team/smash-soda. Open Settings and make sure Guide Button input is disabled.