> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Configure Workshop Collections in Counter-Strike 2

> Automate map downloads and rotations on your CS2 server. Learn how to link Steam Workshop Collections for smooth integration of custom game modes.

## Automating Content Management

using Steam Workshop Collections is the most efficient strategy for hosting custom game modes such as Surf, Bhop, or specialized Aim training maps on your Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) server. By linking your server directly to a collection, you eliminate the need for manual file uploads and ensure that your server automatically synchronizes and updates assets directly from Valve's official repositories whenever a map author releases a patch.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Intermediate
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    5 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Technical Prerequisites

To authorize your server's communication with the Steam Workshop, you must provide a valid authentication token.

* **Web API Key:** Generate your unique key at [steamcommunity.com/dev/apikey](https://steamcommunity.com/dev/apikey). Ensure you associate it with your primary domain or use `localhost` for internal management.

***

## Setting Up Your Collection

Follow these steps to architect your custom content list on the Steam platform.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Initialize the Collection">
    Within the Steam Client or a web browser, create a new **Workshop Collection** specifically for Counter-Strike 2.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Populate Content">
    Search for your desired community maps and click the **Add to Collection** button for each entry.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Publish & Authorize">
    **important:** You must click the **Publish** button and ensure the visibility is set to **Public**. If the collection is private, your server will fail to retrieve the metadata.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Identify the Collection ID">
    Copy the numerical **Collection ID** situated at the conclusion of the URL (e.g., `?id=123456789`).
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Server Deployment

Apply your collection details to your FREAKHOSTING instance via the Startup parameters.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access Startup Settings">
    Log in to the [Game Panel](https://games.freakhosting.com) and navigate to the **Startup** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Command Line">
    Update the following fields with your specific data:

    * **Workshop Collection ID:** Enter your copied numerical ID.
    * **Workshop Start Map:** Enter the unique ID of the map you wish to load upon server initialization.
    * **Steam Web API Key:** Paste your private API key string.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Initialize Sync">
    Restart your server. Monitor the **Console** tab; you will observe the engine downloading and verifying each map within the collection.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  ### Startup Map Logic

  When using Workshop Collections, the engine ignores the traditional `+map` command. You **must** use the `+workshop_start_map` parameter to ensure the workshop engine initializes correctly during the boot sequence.
</Warning>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

  If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
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  * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
  * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)
</Note>

<Tip>
  ### Save on Your Hosting

  Ready to get a new server? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first month!
</Tip>

***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **CS2:** Workshop integration complete.
</div>