How to Install and Setting Counter-Strike 2 Server

Setting up a Counter-Strike 2 server can seem daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward with the right guidance. This article will guide you through the process, whether you choose to create a server using an automated game server service or set it up manually.

Setting Up Your Counter-Strike 2 Server

The first step to creating a CS2 server is choosing a suitable Virtual Private Server (VPS). VPS hosting provides the necessary resources for a smooth gameplay experience due to its dedicated environment and customizable configurations. A VPS specifically designed for gaming, such as Minecraft hosting offered by Hostinger, is an excellent choice. It provides sufficient resources, including RAM and vCPU, optimized for game performance.

Obtaining a VPS

When selecting a VPS, consider factors such as:

• RAM and vCPU: Choose a package that meets your anticipated server load and player count.

• Location: Opt for a data center close to your players for reduced latency and better gameplay.

• Security: Ensure your VPS has robust security features to protect against DDoS attacks and other vulnerabilities.

• Support: Choose a provider that offers reliable customer support for assistance with server issues.

Hostinger's VPS Game Panel offers various packages tailored for game hosting, including Counter-Strike 2. Its benefits include:

• Abundant Resources: Packages offer generous RAM and vCPU for smooth gaming performance.

• Game Panel: A user-friendly graphical interface for managing your server and setting game configurations.

• Full Root Access: Enables customized server configuration to meet your specific requirements.

• DDoS Protection: Safeguards your server from DDoS attacks, ensuring uptime and stability.

• Automatic Off-Site Backups: Regular backups protect your data, ensuring easy restoration in case of incidents.

Setting up your Hostinger VPS:

1. Choose a Package: Select a VPS package that aligns with your needs and budget.

2. Checkout: Complete the payment process.

3. Setup: Navigate to your VPS and click the "Setup" button next to your newly acquired package.

4. Configure: Provide a name for your server, create a password for the Game Panel, and choose your preferred data center location.

Generating a Game Server Login Token

To activate your Counter-Strike 2 server, you need a Game Server Login Token (GSLT), also known as a server login token. This token is linked to your Steam account and ensures compliance with Steam's service agreement.

Before generating your token:

• Unbanned Account: Ensure your Steam account is not banned or restricted.

• Registered Phone Number: You must have a registered phone number associated with your account.

• Game Ownership: You must own Counter-Strike 2 on your Steam account.

• Account Limit: You have a limit of 1,000 game server accounts.

To generate your token:

1. Login to Steam: Access the Game Server Account Management page on your Steam account.

2. Create New Account: Scroll down to "Create a new game server account."

3. App ID: Enter the App ID for Counter-Strike 2, which is 730.

4. Memo: Add a memo or name for your server.

5. Create: Click the "Create" button.

Your token will be displayed. Keep it safe, as you'll need it later during server configuration.

Creating a Counter-Strike 2 Instance

With your VPS and GSLT ready, you can now create a new Counter-Strike 2 instance. The Hostinger Game Panel simplifies this process.

1. Access Game Panel: From your VPS dashboard, click "Manage Panel" at the top.

2. Login: Enter your login credentials to access the Game Panel.

3. Create Instance: Click "Create Instance" and select "Counter-Strike 2" from the "Select Application" dropdown menu.

4. Create: Click "Create" to launch your new Counter-Strike 2 instance.

Configuring Your Counter-Strike 2 Server

Once your instance is running, you can configure server settings according to your preferences. The Game Panel offers various options for customization, such as game mode, server name, and other settings.

1. Manage Instance: Navigate to your instance and click "Manage" from the right-hand menu.

2. Configuration Settings: Go to "Configuration" → "CS2 Server Settings."

3. GSLT: Enter your GSLT in the provided field.

4. Game Settings: Configure your game settings, including map selection, maximum player count, server name, VAC (Valve Anti-Cheat), and game mode presets.

Hosting Your Counter-Strike 2 Game

After setting up your server, it's time to host your Counter-Strike 2 game. The Game Panel provides a seamless experience for starting and managing your server.

1. Connection Info: Find your server's IP address and port in the "Connection Info" section.

2. Connection Link: Share your server's connection link with friends to invite them to join.

3. Game Console: To connect using your game console, follow these steps:

   • Launch Counter-Strike 2.

   • Open Settings → Game.

   • Enable the Developer Console by setting "Enable Developer Console" to YES.

   • Press the "~" key to open the console.

   • In the console, type "connect [Server IP]:[Port]" (replace with your actual server information).

Manual Server Setup

For those seeking greater control and technical understanding, you can manually set up your Counter-Strike 2 server. This involves using a Linux environment, and we'll use Ubuntu 22.04 64-bit as an example.

Accessing Your VPS

1. Login to Hostinger: Log in to your Hostinger account and access your VPS dashboard.

2. VPS Status: In the "VPS Information" tab, ensure your VPS is "Running." If not, click "Start VPS."

3. SSH Access: Open the "SSH Access" tab for details on accessing your server via SSH commands.

Installing Dependencies

Before setting up your Counter-Strike 2 server, update your package list to ensure access to the latest software for improved performance and security.

1. Update Package List: Open an SSH client (like PuTTY) and log in to your VPS. Run the following command to update the package list:

      sudo apt update
    

1. Install Dependencies: Install essential dependencies required for your Counter-Strike 2 server by running:

      sudo apt-get install lib32gcc1
    

Downloading and Installing Server Files

To install the Counter-Strike 2 dedicated server files, you'll need to download and install SteamCMD, the official command-line tool for the Steam client.

1. Create User: Create a new user for securely running SteamCMD:

      sudo useradd -m steam
    

1. Login as Steam: Log in as the Steam user:

      su - steam
    

1. Create Directory: Create a directory for SteamCMD and navigate to it:

      mkdir ~/Steam && cd ~/Steam
    

1. Download SteamCMD: Download and extract SteamCMD for Linux:

      curl -sqL "https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/client/installer/steamcmd_linux.tar.gz" | tar zxvf -
    

1. Install tmux and screen: Install these tools for easier server management using commands:

      sudo apt-get install tmux screen -y;
    

1. Run SteamCMD: Execute SteamCMD using:

      ./steamcmd.sh
    

1. Download Server Files: Once you see the "Steam>" prompt, you can proceed to download the Counter-Strike 2 dedicated server files:

   • Set Installation Directory: Specify the installation directory for your CS2 dedicated server:

         force_install_dir /full/path/to/cs2-ds/
       

   
   

   • Log In: Login with your Steam account:

         login <username> <password>
       

   
   

   • Install and Validate: Install the Counter-Strike 2 dedicated server files and verify their integrity:

         app_update 730 validate
       

   
   

   • Exit SteamCMD: Type "quit" to log off from the Steam server.

Configuring Your Server

After downloading and installing the server files, customize your server's configuration.

1. Navigate to Server Directory: Open your Counter-Strike 2 directory using:

      cd /full/path/to/cs2-ds/
    

1. Edit server.cfg: Open the server.cfg file to configure your server settings:

      nano server.cfg
    

1. Customise Settings: Adjust settings like server name, game type, and other gameplay rules as needed. For example:

      hostname "Your Server Name"
mp_gametype "Your Game Type"
    

1. Save and Exit: Save your changes and exit the text editor.

Starting Your Counter-Strike 2 Server

Now that you've customized your server, start it.

1. Navigate to Server Directory: Go to the server directory:

      cd /path/lengkap/direktori/cs2-ds/
    

1. Start Server: Run the following command to start your CS2 server:

      ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2
    

1. Adjust Game Modes: Use this cheat sheet to customize your server's game mode and type for each session:

   • Competitive:

         ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2 +game_mode 1 +game_type 0
       

   
   

   • Wingman:

         ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2 +game_mode 2 +game_type 0
       

   
   

   • Casual:

         ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2 +game_mode 0 +game_type 0
       

   
   

   • Deathmatch:

         ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2 +game_mode 2 +game_type 1
       

   
   

   • Custom:

         ./cs2 -dedicated +map de_dust2 +game_mode 0 +game_type 3
       

   
   

Monitoring and Managing Your Server

After starting your Counter-Strike 2 server, you'll need to monitor and manage its performance.

• Restart Server:

      sm_restart
    

• Change Map:

      changelevel de_newmap
    

• Kick Player:

      kick [username]
    

• Ban Player:

      banid [SteamID]
    

• List Connected Players:

      status
    

• Enable Server Logs:

      log on
    

• Set Maximum Players:

      maxplayers [number]
    

Connecting to Your Counter-Strike 2 Server

Now that your server is running, you can connect to it from your device.

1. Port Forwarding: Configure port forwarding on your router to direct traffic to your server. CS2 typically uses ports 27015-27030.

2. Launch CS2 and Open Console: Start Counter-Strike 2 and press "~" to open the console.

3. Connect: In the console, type "connect [Server IP]:[Port]" (replace with your server information) and press Enter.

Transitioning from CS:GO to CS2

If you're familiar with managing CS:GO servers, the process for CS2 will be similar, but with some key adjustments:

• Configuration Settings: Though both games are part of the Counter-Strike series, server configurations may differ. Review configuration options carefully when setting up your CS2 server.

• Gameplay Mechanics: Gameplay rules may have changed slightly. Adjust your settings accordingly for optimal gameplay.

• Server Resources: CS2 may have different server resource requirements. Consider this when transitioning from CS:GO, as it could affect server performance.

• Community Content and Mods: Community content and mods compatible with CS:GO may not work with CS2. This is important to note before migrating, especially if your server relies heavily on mods.

Conclusion

Setting up a Counter-Strike 2 server might seem daunting, but with this guide, you can navigate the process with ease. Whether you choose to use an automated game server service or prefer manual setup, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience with your very own CS2 server.