Skip to main content
Left 4 Dead 2 server commands are typed in the Game Panel Console without a slash, or from your game with rcon <command> after rcon_password. The ones you use most are changelevel <map> to change the map, status to list players, kick <name> to remove someone and z_difficulty <Easy|Normal|Hard|Impossible> to set the difficulty. Settings you want to keep go in server.cfg.

​
How to run L4D2 server commands

A console command lasts until the next restart or map change. Many options also have a switch in Game settings, which is easier.

​
Map and campaign commands

​
Player commands

​
Game and server cvars

​
Campaign start maps

Type maps * if a name doesn’t work; it shows the exact names on your server.

​
Frequently asked questions

​
How do I change the map on my L4D2 server?

Type changelevel <map> in the Console. To start on that map every time, set Start map in Game settings.

​
How do I give myself admin commands?

Vanilla Left 4 Dead 2 only has RCON. For an in-game admin menu, install SourceMod. See SourceMod admin menu basics.

​
Why does my console change disappear?

Console changes last until the next restart. Add the line to server.cfg to keep it.

​
How do I ban someone permanently?

Find their user ID with status, type banid 0 <userid>, then writeid.

Left 4 Dead 2 server guide

Every Left 4 Dead 2 page in one place.

Fix consistency errors

sv_consistency explained.

Vote settings

sv_vote_* cvars.

SourceMod admin menu

sm_kick, sm_ban and the admin menu.

Use the server console

Send commands from the panel.
Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team on 30 October 2026 (Left 4 Dead 2 on our Game Panel). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

​
Need Extra Help?

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

​
Save on Your Hosting

Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code KB20 at checkout for 20% off your first order!
Last Updated: October 2026