How To Set Up a CS2 Dedicated Server

Counter-Strike is a very accessible game in which players can launch the game and immediately play on Valve servers against other players. However, Valve’s game modes might get boring sometimes, and it’s better to try something else in the game.

By hosting a dedicated server, you can invite your friends to play on any game mode or map, giving you free rein of what you want to do. However, setting up a dedicated CS2 server might be a lengthy process. In this article, we’ll make it as easy as possible and teach you how you can create your own server in CS2.

What Is A CS2 Dedicated Server?

Benefits Of Hosting Your Own Server

Having your own server provides you with benefits just like having your own house – you are fully in control. Since you have complete control of the server, you can enjoy the following benefits.

• Change the server rules and settings to whatever you’d like.
• Enable cheat commands without any limitations.
• Play on a private, invite-only server that no random players can join.
• Select any map and game mode and be able to change them anytime.
• Foster a community that you are responsible for.

In general, dedicated servers can have multiple purposes, and since you have full power, you can make anything happen on it.

Can You Host A Dedicated Server For Free?

The answer is yes. Later on in this guide, we will show you how you can host your own server using SteamCMD, which is a free tool that anyone can access. However, if you are looking to host a professional server that is open to the public, you might be better off using server hosting services that will provide your server with more RAM and a better connection.

In this article, we are only showing you how you can host a small, private server for your close friends.

Requirements To Set Up A Dedicated Server

Before we get into how you can set up your server, it is important to understand that your computer must meet certain requirements for you to be able to host your own server and provide a good experience for players joining. Your system requirements should meet the following requirements.

• CPU Power: At least 3.0 GHz (Quad Core)
• RAM: At least 6 GB
• Free Disk Space: At least 50 GB

How To Set Up Counter-Strike Dedicated Servers

Now that everything is out of the way, let’s begin the step-by-step guide on how you can host your own dedicated CS2 server.

Step 1: Use SteamCMD (Free)

To run a free server and make the process easier, we’re going to use a free tool called SteamCMD, which will help you install and update the files for your CS2 server.

1. First, go to the official SteamCMD page and download the application. Make sure to extract the download and place it in a good location.
2. Next, run the application, which should look similar to a command prompt. Then, type “login [your username]” and hit Enter to log into your Steam account. You will have to enter your password and enter the Steam Guard code sent to your mobile device or email.
3. Now, we will set the installation directory, which will make SteamCMD save your server files in one safe location. Make sure to select a file path that is comfortable for you.
4. Once your directory and account are set up, type in the command “app_update 730 validate”, which will begin installing files for your CS2 server.

Step 2: Setting Up Your CS2 Server Settings

The next step is to configure your Counter-Strike server by changing its settings, commands, and all of that custom stuff.

1. Find your configuration file, which should be saved in the previous step. We are looking for the file named “server.cfg”.
2. In case “server.cfg” does not exist, you can use a Notepad or a Text Document to make the file.
3. Next, open the file and begin inputting your desired settings, such as commands, server names, passwords, and more.

Step 3: Make Your Game Server Login Token (GSLT)

Now, we are going to make a Game Server Login Token, also known as GSLT. This is required for your friends to see and join your server in CS2. 

1. On Steam, look for “Steam Game Server Account Management”.
2. Log in to your Steam account. Don’t worry, as it is on the official Steam website.
3. Look for App ID 730, which is the code for Counter-Strike. 
4. Once you see the token, open “server.cfg” and then type in: sv_setsteamaccount “[Your GSLT Token]”.

Step 4: Find Your IP Address

The third step is relatively easy. You will need to find your IP address so your friends can join the server. If you already know what it is – great, you can move on to the next step. But if you don’t.

1. Hold Windows + R to open Run.
2. Type cmd and press Enter, which will take you to the Command Prompt.
3. Next, in the text box provided, type “ipconfig” and hit Enter. 
4. Your IP will be located next to “IPv4 Address”.

Step 5: Port Forward So Friends Can Join

Now that we have the IP address, we must port forward the server so that your friends can join from different locations. If you are all using the same LAN connection, there is no need to do this.

1. Open your browser and paste your IP address.
2. Log in with your router’s name and password.
3. Find the Port Forwarding section, or sometimes Virtual Server.
4. Forward the UDP port “27015” to your server’s IP address.

Step 6: Run The Server

Now, everything should be set up for you to start the server. To send the IP address to your friends to connect, the format will be: [Your IP address]:27015.