How to potentially fix network issues in CS2 (Armory update)

Network issues in CS2 are currently at an all-time high, and users across the world have reported a massive surge in their network packet loss within the game. Ever since the release of the Armory update on October 2, 2024, players have been plagued with numerous network issues, amongst which reports of packet loss and in-game stutters have been the highest.

However, an official Valve developer has showcased an easy fix to potentially fix this issue. This article will provide a detailed brief on how you can fix and improve your network issues in CS2.

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Guide to potentially fixing network issues in CS2

Fletcher Dunn, a Valve engineer, has provided a potential fix for the ongoing packet loss and other network issues in CS2 through a minor tweak in the game's settings. This solution came to light after Dunn responded to a player experiencing network jitter on the CS2 subreddit.

Tweaking in-game settings for improved performance

As per the developer, you can follow these steps to improve the jittery network problems in your game:

1. Open Steam and log in with your credentials.
2. Update CS2 to its latest version and launch it.
3. Head into the in-game settings.
4. Go to the 'Game' tab. Locate the network settings area.
5. Here, change the input for 'Extra Buffering to Smooth Packets' to "1"

Upon tweaking this setting, you should be able to see improved performance within your game. Additionally, you can enable the 'network graph' feature, which was introduced with the Armory Update on October 2, 2024. It will help you keep a tab on any fluctuations in your connectivity to the in-game network.

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Tweaking router settings to reduce jitter

If you have higher-end routers or use gaming routers for your internet usage, you can also try disabling certain settings temporarily to improve network jitter issues in CS2. Fletcher Dunn, the Counter-Strike 2 developer has stated that temporarily disabling "QoS" features, or even "Security" features in your router can potentially fix and reduce jitter in the game. You can access and disable these properties and features through your router's settings page.

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Furthermore, you can also make a note of some other fixes to help mitigate network issues in CS2. Here's a look into some of them:

Use an ethernet connection

Wireless connectivity is notoriously known for its packet loss issues and disruptive connection. To mitigate this problem, we urge players to opt for a good quality ethernet connection. Connect your computer to your internet router to ensure that you have a seamless and steady connection of internet streaming into your PC.

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Check your internet connectivity

Oftentimes, network issues in Counter-Strike 2, or any other multiplayer game can be traced back to faulty internet connectivity. Check your internet speed and general connectivity. If needed, contact your ISP (internet service provider) to check your network and fix any issues that might potentially pop up.

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Verifying game files

Last but not least, if you do have faulty game files in your system, you will inevitably face gameplay issues, or network issues in CS2. There's an easy fix to mitigate this problem, provided that the source of all your problems is faulty game files.

Since CS2 is solely accessible on Steam, you can verify the integrity of the game files through the designated launcher. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieve this outcome:

1. Launch Steam and log in with your credentials. If needed, use Steam Guard to authenticate your session and access the platform on your computer.
2. Now, go to the Game Library. Here, locate the file for 'Counter-Strike 2'.
3. Right-click on this file and click on the 'Properties' tab from the drop-down menu.
4. You will be met with a new window. Locate the tab for 'Installed Files'.
5. Here, you will find a prompt with the text 'Verify integrity of game files'. Click on this prompt.

This will automatically start the verification process for all your CS2 game files. If any of your files have been corrupted or damaged due to unforeseen network errors, or erratic PC shutdowns, these will automatically be removed and replaced by Steam. Upon completion, you can launch the game and check whether the network issues in CS2 have been fixed on your end.

Verifying the integrity of Counter-Strike 2 files on Steam (Image via Valve)

If the problem still isn't fixed, you can either reinstall the game altogether or wait for Valve to release an official hotfix to patch the problem for all users.

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That's all there is to know about potentially fixing network issues in CS2 after the Armory update. For more related news and guides, stay tuned to Sportskeeda's Esports section.