Ultimate Server Guide

[Shogun]

Mods: Please move thread if it is not in the correct location.



Thinking of buying a server? Just did? Need some tips, not sure how to do some things? Read on.


Before You Buy
Do some digging, search around and read about certain game server hosts, read reviews, ask other people their opinions. Don't dive right in and buy the first server you see (I've learned that the hard way). Make sure the host you choose has good servers, has been around for a while, and most importantly, great customer service. If you are not sure about a certain host, research them and find some customer reviews to help you decide.

Purchasing
Don't automatically go for the cheapest server. Generally, those servers aren't the best ones to buy. Make sure you have proper funding for the server, and have researched your host thoroughly. Once you carefully select your host and decide what server options you like, you are ready to purchase. Most hosts provide different methods of payment, and different time frames to make the payments in. Usually you can save money by making payments that are more spread out, but will end up paying more at a time. If you know for a fact that your server will be around for a while, go ahead and purchase one of the extended payment plans. If you aren't sure, start out with monthly payments--you can always switch later.

Installing
Generally, your server will come with the standard maps, and Rcon admin control. If you are looking to install a Mod on your server, such as Zombie Mod or Gun Game, visit this link to download them. Descriptions and installation instructions are included with each. Now of course you will want new and better maps on your server! In most server control panels, there is an option called "Map Packs." Click on that and select the desired maps you wish to use, and click "Install." Other maps can be downloaded from this page. If you decide to download additional maps yourself, you can upload the files individually using the "File Manager" in your main control panel. You will need to upload them to the "/cstrike/maps" directory. Additional materials/textures may be required to view your map properly, in which case you will need to upload those files to their respective folders as well. If you are uploading several maps and don't wish to upload them each individually, you can use an FTP client, such as SmartFTP, to do so. Your host should have provided you with FTP information, most likely through e-mail. Connect to your FTP using the IP, username and password you were provided with. You can then navigate to the directory you wish to upload files to, and click and drag your maps to that folder.
You will also probably want to install some sort of Mod for admin on your server. I would suggest Mani Admin Plugin for CS: Source. If Mani Admin isn't on the list of available "Game Mods" to install, you will need to go to that website and upload the files yourself.

Configuring Your Options
These are options that MOST servers have, located in your main server control panel.

Default Config Files
Most servers have this option on your main server control panel. Here you can edit your server configs, map lists, and MOTD to your liking.

File Manager
Generally you will only need to use this if you are going to upload or edit certain files yourself, which is only recommended for advanced users.

Command Line Changer
Usually, you cannot edit the Default command line. In that case, you will need to create your own if you would like to change it. Most people only use this if they would like to change the map the server defaults to. To do this, click "New," give your config a name, and type the map you would like the map to be on whenever you restart your server. Other options may be available for your command line, but it is generally best to leave the defaults.

Server Status and Administration
This feature is used if you would like to use Rcon commands on your server remotely. Generally, you won't need it.

Mani Admin Editor
If you have Mani Admin installed on your server, you can edit Admin groups and members here.

Game Mods
Here, you can install Game Mods such as Zombie Mod, Gun Game, and WC3 on your server. If the Mod you wish to install is not on this list, click here to view a list of other Mods available for download.

Map Packs
If you are not pleased with solely having default maps on your server, you can install others here. If that's still not enough, go to this page to download more.

Game Server Activity
Here, you can view graphs and statistics of the users playing on your server.


If you have any suggestions for add-ons to this guide, please let me know! Also, if you have any further questions, feel free to contact me.

[Kghost]

Great guide... great for people new to servers, or just anyone

[Watdaflip]

Thanks for the guide... sticky..

[Carnage13]

Thanks Shogun here read this



Hey Counter-Strike gamers, my name is Trevor. I've been away from Counter-Strike for some time now. I'm going to introduce myself back into the Extreme Gaming by getting a 20-slot server, 20-slot team speak,and a 20 slot Ventrillo. I'm might get a 66 Tick server, or a 100 Tick server. I'm definatly going to get a Wc3 Server. I'm hoping to find some good clan members as well as intrested admins (starting at $5.00 a mounth.) I'm looking for admins and clanmates not for the fact that "There in power," But the fact that you love CS:S and you wanna clean it up a bit (meaning getting rid of hackers) And make a honest and loyal gaming community within my server. I Havn't thought of a clan name but i would appriciate some help on your ideas . This is all set to take place September17th/September 30th. I go by Carnage13 or just Carnage. Now that iv'e introduced myself, let me hear more about you. If you would like to email me, you can reach me at - krinic_trevor@yahoo.com - Thank You.

[Chaos|CT|Twin]

Can u give me any websites for me to downlaos mods and the basics on starting to make a good map

[Shogun]

Read the very first post for a link to a mod download page. And I won't go into map making here, as not only is it off topic, it's extremely complicated.

[Dann]

Agreed, Map Making is only for those who understand entity's and textures.. If your wondering what program to use for map-making it's Hammer Editor located under SourceSDK.

Don't post back here Chaos, PM me if you need any help.