Home >> Internet Games >> Computer Games

What Can Cause Connection Problems in Counter-Strike?

"Counter-Strike" is a first-person shooter developed and released by Valve and published by Valve and Sierra Game Studios. "Counter-Strike" is based on and built around the same game engine as "Half Life," another Valve-created first-person video game. The game is a popular download on Steam, Valve's content management system. "Counter-Strike" is only available for play on a Windows-based computer system. Online multi-player gaming is the focus of the game, so understanding and solving connection issues is an important step in playing "Counter-Strike."

Open and Closed Ports
- "Counter-Strike" and Steam require a user's Internet router system to have certain ports open. Ports are like gateways that programs and games use to send and receive Internet-based data. UDP ports 4380, 27000 to 27015 and 27015 to 27030, as well as TCP ports 27014 to 27050, all must be open to connect "Counter-Strike" to Steam's online management system.
Computer Firewalls
- Setting your personal computer's firewall to allow Steam and "Counter-Strike" is a necessary step to solving a connection problem. Firewall versions and brands differ, but many will prompt you to "Allow" or "Deny" a program's access to your Internet connection. When prompted, select "Allow" for Steam and "Counter-Strike." If you are not prompted, open your firewall software and manually add Steam and "Counter-Strike" to your allowed-programs list.
Network Hardware Issues
- Your router and modem may be at the root of your "Counter-Strike" connection problems. Occasionally, routers and modems will need to be reset and have their power cycle run through. A simple resetting and refreshing of these network devices can often restore your hardware to working order.
Open Applications and Programs
- Other applications and programs may be blocking Steam and "Counter-Strike" access to your Internet connection. Your Web connection is limited, so shutting down and closing all web-enabled programs will help you maintain a strong Internet bandwidth, necessary for optimal online gaming connections.

Computer Games