Source Engine MOTD Builder

Generate motd.txt and motd_text.txt files for Source Engine game servers (CS:S, TF2, GMod, L4D2).

Game

MOTD Type

Content

URL to display in MOTD panel

The Source Engine MOTD panel will load this URL in an embedded browser. Use HTTPS for best compatibility.

Place in: cstrike/cfg/motd.txt

https://yourserver.com/rules

Place in: cstrike/cfg/motd_text.txt

Welcome to our server!

Please visit our website for rules and information.

// Enable MOTD and set to URL mode
sv_motd_unload_on_dismissal 0
// motd.txt contains the URL to display

• motd.txt — displayed when the MOTD is a URL (HTML page loaded in the browser panel).
• motd_text.txt — displayed as plain text fallback when the MOTD is text-only or when the URL mode is disabled.
• Both files are required in cfg/ of your game directory.
• Use sv_motd_unload_on_dismissal 0 to keep the URL panel loaded (reduces reload flicker).
• In GMod, the MOTD is handled by the MotdStart hook — some gamemodes override it.