How to Host Your Own CS:GO Server

Hello Dev! Are you ready to take your CS:GO gaming experience to the next level? Hosting your own CS:GO server allows you to have more control over your gameplay, which can enhance your gaming experience significantly. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of hosting your own CS:GO server from scratch. Let’s get started!

Chapter 1 – Choosing Your Server

Before you start, you must decide what type of server you want to host. You have two options: a dedicated server or a peer-to-peer server. A dedicated server is a stand-alone machine that is solely dedicated to running your CS:GO server, while a peer-to-peer server runs on your own computer, using your own resources. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on your needs and preferences.

Option 1 – Dedicated Server

A dedicated server is the best option if you want to run a server with a large number of players or if you want to have complete control over your server. Here are the steps to set up a dedicated server:

Step 1 – Choose Your Hardware

Server Type	Minimum Requirements
Windows Server	2GHz CPU, 4GB RAM, 80GB HDD
Linux Server	2GHz CPU, 2GB RAM, 20GB HDD

To run a dedicated server, you will need a machine that meets the minimum requirements. You can choose between a Windows or Linux server, depending on your preference.

Step 2 – Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is a command-line tool that allows you to install and update game servers. You can download it from the official Valve website. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions.

Step 3 – Create a Steam Account

You will need a Steam account to download and install the CS:GO server files. If you don’t have an account, create one now.

Step 4 – Download the CS:GO Server Files

Using SteamCMD, download the CS:GO server files. The command you need to enter is:

app_update 740 validate

This will download the latest version of the server files and validate them. This process may take some time depending on your internet speed.

Step 5 – Configure Your Server

Configure your server settings by editing the server.cfg file located in the csgo/cfg folder. You can find a list of the available settings on the official CS:GO Wiki.

Option 2 – Peer-to-Peer Server

A peer-to-peer server is a good option if you want to run a server with a small number of players or if you don’t want to invest in a dedicated server. Here are the steps to set up a peer-to-peer server:

Step 1 – Choose Your Hardware

Running a peer-to-peer server requires a high-speed internet connection and a powerful computer. You will need at least a quad-core CPU and 8GB of RAM, as well as a fast internet connection with high upload speeds.

Step 2 – Port Forwarding

You will need to forward the ports used by CS:GO to your computer. The default ports are 27015 (UDP) and 27005 (TCP). You can find a guide on how to port forward on the official CS:GO Wiki.

Step 3 – Download the CS:GO Server Files

Using SteamCMD, download the CS:GO server files. The command you need to enter is:

app_update 740 validate

This will download the latest version of the server files and validate them. This process may take some time depending on your internet speed.

Chapter 2 – Hosting Your Server

Now that you have set up your server, you need to host it so that other players can join. Here are the steps to host your server:

Option 1 – Dedicated Server

Step 1 – Start Your Server

Start your server by running the srcds.exe file located in the csgo folder. You can start the server with the following command:

srcds -game csgo -console -usercon +game_type 0 +game_mode 0 +mapgroup mg_active +map de_dust2

This will start a server with the map de_dust2 in competitive mode.

Step 2 – Set Up Your Firewall

You will need to open the ports used by CS:GO in your firewall. The default ports are 27015 (UDP) and 27005 (TCP).

Step 3 – Add Your Server to the Server Browser

You can add your server to the server browser by adding the IP address and port number to the favorites list. Players can then find your server by selecting it from the favorites list.

Option 2 – Peer-to-Peer Server

Step 1 – Start Your Server

Start your server by running the srcds.exe file located in the csgo folder. You can start the server with the following command:

srcds -game csgo -console -usercon +game_type 0 +game_mode 0 +mapgroup mg_active +map de_dust2

This will start a server with the map de_dust2 in competitive mode.

Step 2 – Invite Players

You can invite players to your server by sharing your IP address and port number with them. They can connect by entering the following command in the console:

connect [IP Address]:[Port Number]

Chapter 3 – FAQ

Q1. Can I run multiple CS:GO servers on the same machine?

A1. Yes, you can run multiple CS:GO servers on the same machine. You will need to use different ports for each server.

Q2. Can I customize my server settings?

A2. Yes, you can customize your server settings by editing the server.cfg file located in the csgo/cfg folder.

Q3. How many players can I have on my server?

A3. The number of players you can have on your server depends on the hardware you are using. A dedicated server can handle more players than a peer-to-peer server.

Q4. How do I update my server?

A4. You can update your server using SteamCMD. The command you need to enter is:

app_update 740

This will update your server to the latest version.

Q5. How do I ban players from my server?

A5. You can ban players by adding their SteamID to the banlist.cfg file located in the csgo/cfg folder.

Conclusion

Hosting your own CS:GO server can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to run a dedicated server or a peer-to-peer server, make sure to follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Good luck and have fun!