CS2 RCON: How to Send Commands to Your Server
Four ways to run console commands on your CS2 server: the panel Server Console, the hosting API, third-party RCON tools, and the Fake RCON plugin. Includes common commands and a note on Valve's native RCON status.
Important: Valve Has Not Enabled Native RCON
CS2 shipped without native RCON. The standard rcon_password / rcon flow from CS:GO does not work — attempting it will time out. Until Valve re-enables it, use one of the methods below.
Method 1: Panel Console (Recommended)
The fastest way to run commands on your server is through your panel's built-in console — no RCON client or extra plugins needed.
AMP: Go to your CS2 instance → Console tab. Type commands and hit Enter.
WISP / Pterodactyl: Go to your server page → Console. Same deal.
Method 2: Panel API
Both AMP and WISP expose REST APIs that can send console commands programmatically. Useful for scripts and bots. Check your panel's API documentation for endpoints and authentication.
Method 3: Third-Party RCON Tools (with Fake RCON)
Once you install the Fake RCON plugin, your server accepts RCON connections on port 27015. You can then use standard RCON clients:
- rcon-cli — command-line RCON client (Windows/Linux/Mac)
- RCON-CLI GUI — desktop GUI
- Batch scripts using
rcon-clifor automated map changes or restarts
Method 4: Fake RCON In-Game
With the Fake RCON plugin installed, admins can run commands in-game:
fake_rcon_password YourPassword
fake_rcon changelevel de_mirage
This is covered in detail in How to Install Fake RCON.
Useful Console Commands
| Command | Effect |
|---|---|
status |
Show connected players and their SteamIDs |
mp_restartgame 1 |
Restart the match in 1 second |
changelevel de_dust2 |
Change to Dust 2 |
host_workshop_map <id> |
Load a Workshop map |
kick <name> |
Kick a player by name |
mp_teamname_1 "Team A" |
Set team 1's name |
mp_teamname_2 "Team B" |
Set team 2's name |
sv_cheats 1 |
Enable cheats (practice mode) |
mp_warmup_end |
Immediately end the warmup period |
mp_restartgame 1 |
Restart the live match |
say "Hello from server" |
Send a message to all players |