> ## 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 Record CSTV Demos Automatically in Counter-Strike 2

> Preserve every match for review or highlights. Learn how to configure automated CSTV demo recording on your Counter-Strike 2 server.

## Capturing Every Moment

**CSTV** (the technological successor to GOTV) is the primary engine for recording full-server match replays in Counter-Strike 2. Establishing an automated recording workflow is essential for community servers that require immutable evidence for administrative actions, as well as for competitive teams performing deep tactical analysis. By automating this process, you ensure that every highlight and controversial play is preserved without requiring manual intervention from your staff.

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

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

***

## Technical Configuration

To activate the automated CSTV recording engine, you must apply the following variables to your `server.cfg` file.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access Configuration">
    In the [Game Panel](https://games.freakhosting.com), navigate to the **File Manager** and open the `/game/csgo/cfg/server.cfg` file.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Define Engine Parameters">
    Append the following configuration block to the end of your file:

    ```bash theme={null}
    tv_enable 1       // Enables the CSTV engine
    tv_autorecord 1   // Automatically initializes recording at match start
    tv_maxclients 0   // Disables live spectators to prioritize CPU performance
    tv_delay 120      // Implements a 2-minute delay to prevent ghosting
    ```
  </Step>

  <Step title="Initialize Changes">
    Save the file and **Restart** your server to initialize the CSTV service.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Retrieving Your Match Replays

Recorded demos are stored locally on your server and can be accessed via standard management protocols.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Storage Logic">
    * **Directory:** All `.dem` files are saved directly within the `/game/csgo/` root directory.
    * **Naming Convention:** Files use a standardized timestamp format: `auto-YYYYMMDD-hhmm-map.dem`.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Access Methods">
    You can retrieve your replays using the **File Manager** in our panel for quick downloads, or use an [SFTP Client like FileZilla](/portals/game-panel/how-to-connect-via-sftp) for batch transfers of multiple matches.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

<Warning>
  ### Strategic Storage Management

  Counter-Strike 2 demos are significantly more detailed and larger than those from previous engine generations, often exceeding **100MB per individual match**. We strongly recommend regularly auditing your `/game/csgo/` directory and deleting aging `.dem` files. Allowing your storage to reach 100% capacity will cause the server to crash or fail to initialize subsequent matches.
</Warning>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

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

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
  * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
  * **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:** Match recording active.
</div>