The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The essential TF2 server-owner toolkit is built into the game: use the server console or authenticated RCON for administration, place persistent convars in tf/cfg/server.cfg, and add SourceMod only when you need permission-managed in-game administration. The sections below separate one-shot actions, persistent settings, cheat-gated testing commands, and SourceMod-only syntax so you can run the right command in the right place.
Prefer not to run the server on your own PC? Godlike.Host offers hosted Team Fortress 2 servers with free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day.
Know which console has authority
Team Fortress 2 has two layers of administration. The dedicated-server console and RCON can execute the stock commands shipped with TF2. RCON works out of the box; SourceMod does not. SourceMod is an optional plugin system that adds per-admin permissions, chat-triggered commands, and an in-game menu.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Approach | Where you run it | Typical scope | Persistence | Dependency and risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Server console | Dedicated server terminal or host control panel | Players, teams, match and server | One-shot unless written to a config | Stock TF2; highest authority |
| RCON | Authenticated client console | Same authority as the server console | One-shot unless written to a config | Stock TF2 plus an rcon_password |
| Client console | A player’s in-game developer console | That player’s client, with server approval where required | Usually local and temporary | Some commands are cheat-gated or server-controlled |
| SourceMod | Server console, RCON, or chat after installation | Per-player administration and votes | Plugin and permission configuration | Optional plugin; requires configured admin permissions |
Use the server console or RCON for bans, map changes, match rules, and server-wide settings. A bind or alias typed by a player does not grant server authority merely because it contains a server convar.
Set up RCON and persistent configuration
Protect the RCON password
Put a long, unique rcon_password in tf/cfg/server.cfg. Do not reuse it for a panel, operating-system account, or community service, and do not paste it into public snippets. sv_password is separate: it controls whether players need a password to join the server.
#1 Best Overall
- BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
- EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
- COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.
A practical baseline configuration, dated 26/04/2026, contains the following settings. Replace the sample RCON value with a newly generated secret before using it.
hostname "Your TF2 Server"
rcon_password "N4!qZ7#pL2@rT8$wK5"
sv_password ""
log on
sv_logbans 1
sv_logecho 1
sv_logfile 1
sv_log_onefile 0The logging lines record bans, echo log messages, write log files, and keep separate log files rather than one continually growing file. Keep the password line private even when sharing the rest of the configuration.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Connect with RCON
From an authenticated client, enter the server address, authenticate, then test the connection:
Rank #2
- WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
- AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
- PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
- ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
- COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed
rcon_address <server-ip>:27015
rcon_password <your-password>
rcon statusIn the server console itself, omit the rcon prefix. For example, run status, not rcon status.
Load repeatable settings
Settings in tf/cfg/server.cfg are loaded as part of normal server startup. To load a separate file from tf/cfg/, run:
exec <filename>For example, exec competitive.cfg loads tf/cfg/competitive.cfg. Use separate files for event rules or practice settings, and keep secrets out of files you distribute.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
- Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
- Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
- ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
- Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)
Identify and moderate players safely
Start with status
status lists each connected player’s userid, name, SteamID, ping, and IP address. The userid is the safest short-lived identifier for a kick because names can contain spaces, quotes, color codes, or duplicates.
| Command | What it does | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
status |
Lists connected players and identifiers | Use its userid for an unambiguous action |
kick "name" |
Kicks by player name | Name matching can be ambiguous |
kickid <userid> "reason" |
Kicks the player associated with a userid | Copy the userid from status |
banid <minutes> <steamid> |
Adds a SteamID ban | 0 means permanent |
banip <minutes> <ip> |
Adds an IP ban | 0 means permanent |
removeid <steamid> |
Removes a SteamID ban | Does not alter IP bans |
removeip <ip> |
Removes an IP ban | Does not alter SteamID bans |
listid |
Displays SteamID bans | Useful for checking the current list |
writeid |
Writes SteamID bans to the ban file | Required for persistence |
writeip |
Writes IP bans to the ban file | Required for persistence |
Make a permanent ban persist
- Run
statusand copy the offender’s SteamID. - Issue
banid 0 <steamid>. The zero-minute value means permanent. - Run
writeid. Until this step, the ban exists only in memory. - Check the result with
listidand retain the relevant log entry.
The same rule applies to IP bans: run banip 0 <ip>, then writeip. A restart can discard a ban that was never written. SteamID bans are generally the better identity record; an IP can be shared or change, so use IP bans deliberately.
Control maps, rounds, and server-wide behavior
Convars beginning with mp_ govern match rules. Convars beginning with sv_ affect the whole server or its networking and physics. These values are version-sensitive; verify the value on the running server before treating a documented default as authoritative.
Rank #4
- Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
- Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
- 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
- Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
- USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
| Convar or command | Recorded default | Use |
|---|---|---|
mp_timelimit <minutes> |
30 | Sets the time limit for the map |
mp_winlimit <round-wins> |
0 | Sets a round-win limit |
mp_maxrounds <rounds> |
0 | Sets a maximum number of rounds |
mp_friendlyfire 0|1 |
0 | Controls friendly fire |
mp_autoteambalance 0|1 |
1 | Balances teams automatically |
mp_teams_unbalance_limit <players> |
1 | Sets the allowed team-size difference |
mp_forcecamera 0|1 |
0 | Controls forced spectator camera behavior |
mp_disable_respawn_times 0|1 |
0 | Disables respawn waits when enabled |
sv_alltalk 0|1 |
0 | Controls whether all teams can hear voice chat |
sv_pure 0|1|2 |
1 | Controls file-purity enforcement |
sv_gravity <value> |
800 | Sets server gravity |
Immediate lifecycle actions
mp_restartgame <seconds>restarts the match after the specified delay. Warn players first because it interrupts the current round.mp_scrambleteamsscrambles the teams immediately.changelevel <map>changes the map now.nextlevel <map>sets the map that follows the current one without changing it immediately.quitstops the server process. Use it only when your host or service manager will restart the process as intended.
Put stable policy choices such as timelimits, team balancing, alltalk, purity, and gravity in server.cfg. Keep disruptive actions such as mp_restartgame, changelevel, and mp_scrambleteams as deliberate one-shot commands unless an automated event script requires them.
Recommended Free Tools
Manage bots
Bot commands are useful for an empty test server, aim practice, or checking a map rotation before inviting players.
| Command | Function |
|---|---|
tf_bot_add <count> [team] [difficulty] |
Adds the requested number of bots, optionally selecting a team and difficulty |
tf_bot_kick <name|all> |
Kicks one named bot or every bot |
tf_bot_quota <number> |
Sets the desired bot population |
tf_bot_difficulty <0-3> |
Sets bot difficulty from 0 through 3 |
bot_kill <name|all> |
Kills one bot or all bots |
Use a finite tf_bot_quota on a test instance if you want a predictable population. Remove bots before opening a public event so a temporary practice setting does not consume player slots.
Best Value
- Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
- Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
- Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
- Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
- Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.
Cheat-gated practice commands
sv_cheats 1 is required for commands such as noclip, god, buddha, and mp_forcewin. Enabling cheats is server-wide and visible to connected players, so reserve it for a private or test server. Return to sv_cheats 0 before a public session.
sv_cheats 1
noclip
god
buddha
impulse 101
hurtme <amount>
kill
explode
mp_forcewin <team>
sv_cheats 0nocliplets a player move through the map for inspection.godenables invulnerability;buddhaprevents death while still allowing health loss.impulse 101grants the game’s practice loadout behavior.hurtme <amount>,kill, andexplodedeliberately alter a player’s health or life.mp_forcewin <team>forces a team result and can end a test round.
When noclip says “unknown command”
Vanilla TF2 includes noclip, but it is cheat-gated. First issue sv_cheats 1 from the server console or RCON, then enter noclip in the connected player’s game console. If the console still reports an unknown command, verify that the spelling is exactly noclip and that the command is being entered in the intended TF2 console rather than an unrelated terminal or plugin interface. SourceMod is not required for this stock command.
Understand the SourceMod boundary
SourceMod is optional and must be installed with admin permissions configured. Its commands are not stock TF2 commands. The full form is used in the server console or RCON; chat invocation adds a prefix:
!commanddisplays the command’s output publicly in chat./commandruns it silently for the invoking player.
| SourceMod command | Purpose |
|---|---|
sm_admin |
Opens the in-game administration menu |
sm_kick <player> [reason] |
Kicks a player with an optional reason |
sm_ban <player> <minutes> [reason] |
Bans a player for a duration |
sm_map <map> |
Changes the map |
sm_cvar <convar> [value] |
Reads or changes a convar when the admin has permission |
sm_gag <player> |
Stops a player from using chat |
sm_mute <player> |
Stops a player from using voice |
sm_vote <question> [options] |
Starts an administrative vote |
If an sm_ command returns unknown or permission-denied, check that SourceMod is running and that the invoking SteamID has the required admin flag. Do not substitute an sm_ command when the equivalent stock command is sufficient.
Use aliases and binds without confusing authority
The game supports scripting constructs that make repeated actions easier. They do not all change server state by themselves, and a client bind cannot bypass server permissions.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutebind "e" "voicemenu 0 0"
toggle sv_cheats 0 1
bindtoggle o "sv_cheats 0 1"
incrementvar fov_desired 75 90 1
alias mysetup "mp_friendlyfire 0; mp_autoteambalance 1"bindassigns a command string to a key.togglealternates a convar between listed values.bindtoggleties that alternation to a key.incrementvarsteps a numeric convar within a minimum and maximum.aliascreates a shortcut, including multiple commands separated by semicolons.
For a server policy, put the actual convars in server.cfg or an executed server config. Use aliases and binds for personal workflow, testing, or a controlled client setup.
Quick Recap
Reliable runbooks for common jobs
Restart a match without changing the map
- Warn players in chat or voice.
- Run
mp_restartgame 5from RCON or the server console. - Observe the five-second delay and confirm the round has reset.
Move to a planned next map
- Run
nextlevel <map>to set the following map. - Check the current state with your normal server status output.
- Use
changelevel <map>only when an immediate switch is intended.
Apply an event configuration
- Place the event file in
tf/cfg/. - Keep any RCON secret out of the file if it will be shared.
- Run
exec <event-file>from the server console or RCON. - Manually confirm high-impact values such as friendly fire, team balancing, voice, and gravity.
Recover from an accidental cheat session
- Run
sv_cheats 0. - Restore the intended convars from
server.cfgor the appropriate event file. - Restart the match with
mp_restartgameif the round state was altered. - Tell connected players that the test state has ended before reopening a public session.
A compact operating checklist
- Authenticate with RCON using a unique secret, and never publish it.
- Run
statusbefore player actions; preferkickidover name matching. - After
banidorbanip, run the matchingwriteidorwriteip. - Put durable policy in
tf/cfg/server.cfg; useexecfor controlled alternate configurations. - Warn players before
mp_restartgame,mp_scrambleteams, orchangelevel. - Keep
sv_cheats 1limited to private or test servers. - Use
sm_commands only after SourceMod and SteamID-based permissions are configured. - Remember that defaults can change between TF2 updates; verify live values when precision matters.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
