If you're not sure: Casual ($5/mo) is the right starting point for "me and friends." Competitive ($10/mo) is the right starting point for anything public-facing.

Loading workshop maps

The classic stumbling block. You need to:

1. Add maps to your server's collection in the Workshop
2. +host_workshop_collection <COLLECTION_ID> in your launch options (we set this in the panel)
3. maps * to confirm they loaded

If a map isn't appearing, 99% of the time it's because the collection isn't public. Check Workshop visibility before pulling your hair out.

GOTV demos

GOTV runs on port 27020 by default. We expose it. Players spec via connect <ip>:27020. Demos auto-record into /csgo/ if you set tv_record. Worth turning on — useful for both highlights and call-of-shame.

SourceMod for community features

SourceMod still doesn't have a CS2-stable release as of writing, but the Metamod CS2 plugin works for most use cases (custom commands, anticheat hooks, basic admin). Watch the AlliedModders forum for the latest CS2-compatible builds — we install Metamod / SourceMod for you on request.

A custom subdomain for the connect string

Telling friends "open console, type connect 198.51.100.42 port 27015" is friction. Reserve a custom address like practice.bruce.lat with our free Subdomain Maker. Players just type connect practice.bruce.lat and they're in.

Common rookie mistakes

• mp_autoteambalance 1 in a deathmatch server. Disable it.
• Forgetting game_type 1; game_mode 2 for retake servers — defaults to competitive 5v5.
• Not setting an RCON password — leaving it blank means anyone can issue commands. Set one. Long.

Browse CS2 plans →