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Servers ​

5Stack provides two different methods of managing servers, game server nodes and dedicated servers.

Looking for plugins?

This section covers game plugins, the CS2 server-side plugins that run inside your game servers (SwiftlyS2 / CounterStrikeSharp). See Game Plugins.

If you want to build a web app that runs inside the panel, that's 5Stack Plugin Development instead.

What is a Game Server Node ​

A 5Stack Game Server Node is a Kubernetes cluster that automatically creates Counter-Strike servers on demand.

INFO

The number of servers you can run depends on your machine’s hardware specifications and the number of open ports available.

WARNING

Each game server node should have around 150 GB of available disk space. This space is needed for the Counter-Strike game files and for storing demo recordings of each match (up to 1 GB per match, which will be uploaded and deleted after uploading).

What is a Dedicated Server ​

A dedicated server is a server that stays up, rather than being started for one match. It can run in two places:

  • On one of your game server nodes, where 5Stack builds, updates and restarts it for you, and can move it to another node with its files. See Dedicated Servers on Game Server Nodes.
  • Anywhere else, as an external server you run yourself with the 5Stack plugin installed. Here are the advantages:
    • Full control over server configuration and plugins
    • Freedom to choose any hosting provider or self-host

A dedicated server is either a Ranked Server that hosts matches, a Practice Server, or a community server for open play: a Valve preset or one of your game modes, listed on the Public Servers page, with its own map rotation, plugins, access list and player stats.

Should I Use Dedicated Servers or Game Server Nodes? ​

When deciding between dedicated servers and game server nodes, consider your use case and the unique features each option provides.

Unique Features of Game Server Nodes ​

Game server nodes offer several advantages:

  • Automatic Counter-Strike updates
  • Automatic plugin updates and management
  • Direct control over the number of servers and open ports from the panel
  • Manage Counter-Strike and plugin versions through the panel interface
  • Built-in Steam Relay integration
  • Real-time CPU and memory monitoring for each node
  • Demos are uploaded by a separate process, reducing server load
  • Easy CPU pinning for performance optimization
  • Reuse of Counter-Strike game files reduces disk space required

Game server nodes are ideal for LAN tournaments or gaming centers, where you want to maximize performance and reduce energy costs in a local environment.

Dedicated servers are recommended for multi-regional competitive matches, especially if you use a provider like DATHOST, giving you more flexibility in server location and hosting options.

INFO

While not officially affiliated with DATHOST, 5Stack plans to add support for automated server provisioning through their service in a future update.