How to autoexec cs2

If you want full control over your settings in Counter-Strike 2, using an autoexec.cfg is one of the most effective tools available. An autoexec allows you to automatically apply your preferred settings every time the game launches. This ensures consistent crosshair, sensitivity, binds, and performance settings without manual reconfiguration.

Autoexec is also widely used by pro players, as it allows them to keep their settings consistent, and transfer them to new PCs easily. To follow CS pro performance, visit Winio and get 5 free predictions on their matches.

What Is Autoexec in CS2

An autoexec.cfg is a custom configuration file that contains console commands executed automatically when the game starts. It works alongside the default config.cfg, but serves a different purpose.

Autoexec vs config.cfg

• config.cfg is managed by the game and updates frequently
• autoexec.cfg is controlled by the player and remains consistent

Autoexec vs Launch Options

• Launch options define what the game executes on startup
• Autoexec defines which settings are applied

This combination makes autoexec essential for players who want stable and repeatable settings.

How to Create and Enable Autoexec in CS2

Step 1: Locate the Config Folder

Navigate to:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg

Or, if you installed the game not on your system drive:
D:\SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg

Step 2: Create autoexec.cfg

Make sure “File name extensions” are enabled in your view settings. This is needed so you can manually set the file extension to "cfg”: a configuration file.

Right click empty space, and create a new text document

Rename this new file to: autoexec.cfg .Make sure you remove “.txt” at the end and replace it with “.cfg”, so the file extension changes properly.

Make sure that file extensions are enabled in the “view” menu from the previous step so the file does not become “autoexec.cfg.txt”.

Step 3: Add a test command to autoexec

We will add a test command to the autoexec file so we can check CS2 loads it properly.

• Open the autoexec.cfg file with any text editor, for example Notepad
• Add the following line to the file:

cl_showfps 1

• Save the file

Step 4: Make CS2 load autoexec on launch

In Steam:

• Open Library
• Right-click CS2 → Properties
• Add to Launch Options:

+exec autoexec.cfg

Step 5: Launch CS2 and verify it works

If you’ve done everything correctly, you should see an fps counter on your screen once you launch the game.

If you do not see the fps counter, go over the steps one more time and check that you did everything correctly. Most commonly, the reasons for autoexec not working are:

1. Incorrect file path. Make sure you created the file in “Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg”, as there are other paths that may also contain “cfg” folders.
2. Incorrect file extension. Ensure file extensions are enabled in the view settings, and you replace the “.txt” extension with the “.cfg” extension. Windows should prompt you that you are about to change the file extension, and the icon of the file should change as well if you’re doing everything correctly.
3. Launch options typos. Verify you are adding this line exactly: “+exec autoexec.cfg”. If you are using other launch options, make sure this line is separated with spaces from other launch options, and nothing else besides spaces.

Best Autoexec Commands for CS2

Now that autoexec is working properly, you can open the file with a text editor, and add the commands you want.

Crosshair Settings

• cl_crosshairsize 2.5
• cl_crosshairthickness 0.5
• cl_crosshairgap -2
• cl_crosshair_drawoutline 0
• cl_crosshaircolor 5
• cl_crosshairdot 0

These commands help maintain a consistent and visible crosshair.

Mouse and Sensitivity

1. sensitivity 1.8
2. zoom_sensitivity_ratio 1
3. m_rawinput 1

• m_rawinput 1 ensures direct mouse input without operating system interference
• Consistent sensitivity is critical for accurate aiming

Movement and Binds

• bind "mwheelup" "+jump"
• bind "mwheeldown" "+jump"

Jumpthrow Bind

• alias "+jumpthrow" "+jump;-attack"
• alias "-jumpthrow" "-jump"
• bind "v" "+jumpthrow"

This allows consistent grenade throws without timing errors.

Performance Settings

1. fps_max 0
2. fps_max_ui 60

• fps_max 0 removes the FPS cap
• UI is limited to reduce unnecessary load

Note: In CS2, most graphics settings are controlled through the in-game menu rather than console commands.

Viewmodel Settings

• viewmodel_fov 68
• viewmodel_offset_x 2.5
• viewmodel_offset_y 2
• viewmodel_offset_z -2

These settings adjust weapon position for better visibility.

Radar and HUD

• cl_radar_scale 0.4
• cl_radar_always_centered 0
• cl_hud_radar_scale 1.1
• cl_radar_icon_scale_min 0.6

Improves map awareness and visibility of teammates and enemies.

Example Autoexec.cfg

Here is a clean, ready-to-use configuration:

echo AUTOEXEC LOADED

// Crosshair

cl_crosshairsize 2.5

cl_crosshairgap -2

cl_crosshairthickness 0.5

cl_crosshair_drawoutline 0

cl_crosshaircolor 5

// Sensitivity

sensitivity 1.8

zoom_sensitivity_ratio 1

m_rawinput 1

// Movement

bind "mwheeldown" "+jump"

bind "mwheelup" "+jump"

alias "+jumpthrow" "+jump;-attack"

alias "-jumpthrow" "-jump"

bind "v" "+jumpthrow"

// Viewmodel

viewmodel_fov 68

viewmodel_offset_x 2.5

viewmodel_offset_y 2

viewmodel_offset_z -2

// Radar

cl_radar_scale 0.4

cl_radar_always_centered 0

// FPS

fps_max 0

Common Issues and Fixes

• Incorrect file path. Make sure you created the file in “Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg”, as there are other paths that may also contain “cfg” folders.
• Incorrect file extension. Ensure file extensions are enabled in the view settings, and you replace the “.txt” extension with the “.cfg” extension. Windows should prompt you that you are about to change the file extension, and the icon of the file should change as well if you’re doing everything correctly.
• Launch options typos. Verify you are adding this line exactly: “+exec autoexec.cfg”. If you are using other launch options, make sure this line is separated with spaces from other launch options, and nothing else besides spaces.

Additional Tips

Make File Read-Only (Optional)

• Prevents the game from overwriting settings
• May block updates if changes are needed

Conclusion

An autoexec.cfg is one of the simplest and most effective ways to control your settings in Counter-Strike 2. It ensures consistency, saves time, and allows for deeper customization than the in-game menu alone.

Start with a basic setup, then gradually refine your commands based on your preferences and playstyle.

Is autoexec allowed in matchmaking and competitive play?

Yes. Autoexec files are fully allowed since they only apply client-side settings and do not provide unfair advantages.

Do I need to reapply autoexec after updates?

No. If set up correctly with launch options, it will run automatically every time you start the game.

Should I make my autoexec.cfg read-only?

Optional. It can prevent settings from being overwritten, but it may also block changes if you want to update your config.