In this guide, you will learn how to edit the different Half-Life 2 Deathmatch config files such as server.cfg and mapcycle.txt, and exactly what each one is for.
Main Configs in HL2:DM
By default, the configuration files listed below will control 99% of the things you need to do on your server. Here is an overview of each file and what commands/convars should go where. You can edit these files by going to Files.
Danger
Don't go online and copy someone else's entire config file. Only use what you need. When it comes to configuration, less is more.
server.cfg
Default location: /hl2mp/cfg/server.cfg
The server.cfg file is used for changing server-related settings like game mechanics, physics, and other aspects that affect all players on the server. Examples include sv_cheats, which allows or disallows the use of cheat commands, and mp_timelimit, which sets the game time per map in minutes.
mapcycle.txt
Default location: /hl2mp/cfg/mapcycle.txt
The mapcycle.txt file is where you edit your HL2:DM server map rotation. Ensure that any map added has already been uploaded to the hl2mp/maps folder on your server.
Plugin Config Files
Default location: /hl2mp/addons/sourcemod/configs
If you're using HL2:DM plugins such as SourceMod, each plugin you install should generate a config file inside the SourceMod /addons/sourcemod/configs/ folder. Some plugins and extensions may instead put their config file in /hl2mp/cfg/sourcemod/, since it depends on the plugin. If you're in doubt, refer to the plugin author's documentation.
Finding Convars & Commands
If you ever need to find a convar or command, you can simply go to your server's console and type find followed by what you're looking to change. For example, if you wanted to find a command about gravity, you can simply type find gravity, and it will output all the current convars and commands along with a description of what they all do.