How to Connect to a CS2 Server Using an IP Address

You have a server address like 37.19.215.248:26162 and want to be on it. There are three reliable ways to join a Counter-Strike 2 community server by IP address. Pick the one that matches how you play.

Method 1: the developer console

This is the fastest method once it is set up.

1. Open Counter-Strike 2 and go to Settings, then Game.
2. Set Enable Developer Console to Yes.
3. Press the console key (usually ~ or `, depending on your keyboard layout).
4. Type connect IP:PORT and press Enter.

For the ZATCHI server that command is:

connect 37.19.215.248:26162

Method 2: save the server as a favorite

1. From the main menu choose Play, then open the Community Server Browser.
2. Open the Favorites tab and add a server by entering its IP and port.
3. The server now stays in your list, with its current ping and player count.

Method 3: a Steam connect link

A link in the form steam://connect/IP:PORT asks the Steam client to launch the game and join. It needs Steam installed on the device. Our own server page has a button that does exactly this: open the ZATCHI server page.

If you cannot connect

• Check the port. Community servers rarely use the default port. Always include the number after the colon.
• Check your game version. After a Counter-Strike 2 update, servers and clients must match. Restart the game and let Steam finish updating.
• Check the server is online. It may be restarting. Wait a minute and retry.
• Server has a password. Ask the server owner for it. Public servers do not need one.

Not sure what kind of server you are joining? Read what free-for-all means in CS2.