Difference between revisions of "Server Browser"

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(Some mc, if TC has its own tag then servers using cp are using it incorrectly or it's a bug which means it shouldn't be noted there. Fixed update history, as reverting what the bot did is just going to result in the bot re-doing it.)
 
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[[File:Steam Server Browser.png|right|600px|thumb|The Server Browser in ''Team Fortress 2''.]]
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[[File:Steam Server Browser.png|right|600px|thumb|The Server Browser in ''Team Fortress 2'' (Note: Screenshot from 2015).]]
  
−
The [[Steam]] '''Server Browser''' allows a player to search from a list of available servers and choose a map/game mode of their choosing, as well as add various filters to refine searching. Unlike the browsers used in other Source Engine games, the ''Team Fortress 2'' Server Browser has a few unique features like "server blacklisting" and a "max player count filter".
+
The [[Steam]] '''Server Browser''' is an available [[Main Menu]] option that allows a player to search from a list of available servers and find a map or game mode of their choosing. Beyond basic searching, the server browser is equipped with a range of customizable filters, such as location, ping, player count, and more, allowing for a refined search experience tailored to individual preferences and requirements.
  
−
== Top Button Row ==
+
== Features overview ==
−
=== Internet ===
 
−
Generates a list of available servers from the Internet. Servers that do not meet one or more of the filters are temporarily omitted from the selection. The list is not generated until "Quick refresh" or "Refresh all" is pressed. Normal filter options are shown.
 
  
−
=== Favorites ===
+
The Steam Server Browser in ''[[Team Fortress 2]]'' provides a comprehensive suite of tools for players to locate, filter, and join game servers. Below are the key functionalities offered by the Server Browser.
−
A specific server can be added to the "Favorites" list by right clicking the server name in the browser and clicking "Add server to favorites". The server will not show up if it's taken off the Favorites or is unreachable. Normal filter options are shown.
 
  
−
=== History ===
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'''Comprehensive Server Search'''
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A list of the current status of all the recent servers a player has visited. Servers can be deleted from the list by right-clicking the servers name and left-clicking "Remove server from history". Normal filter options are shown.
 
  
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=== Spectate ===
+
* '''Customizable Filters:''' Players can refine their search using various filters, such as server location, game mode, map type, ping, and others. This enables the identification of servers that align with individual gameplay preferences and connectivity requirements.
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Not usually used for normal servers. Spectate is a link to servers running the [http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/SourceTV Source TV] option. It allows a unlimited amount of players to watch a slightly delayed match running live on the server through a "camera man" (either run by an AI or human). This is used by many competitive\tournament groups to allow an audience to view their matches. Players usually join by an external IP and port number posted on a competition website. Normal filter options are shown.
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* '''Favorites and History:''' The Server Browser allows for easy tracking of preferred and recently visited servers through the Favorites list and History tab, facilitating quick access to favored servers and streamlining the start of a game session.
  
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=== LAN ===
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'''Diverse Server Selection'''
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Looks for a server running on a LAN (local area network). Normal filter options are shown.
 
  
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=== Friends ===
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* '''Internet and [[w:LAN|LAN]] (Local Area Network) Searches:''' The Server Browser supports the discovery of servers on both global and local (LAN) networks, accommodating players' preferences for either online gameplay or localized LAN sessions.
−
Lists which servers a player's friends are currently on. Normal filter options are shown.
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* '''Spectate and Friends Tabs:''' Features include tabs for joining servers where friends are currently playing and for entering Spectate mode to view live matches via [[vdc:SourceTV|Source TV]], enhancing the community and social aspects of the game.
  
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=== Blacklisted Servers ===
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'''Advanced Filtering Options'''
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The servers in this list will not appear in your server browser when searching for a server. Servers can be placed on the list by right clicking the name and selecting "Add server to blacklist". A count of how many servers you have blacklisted will be shown next to the server count in the main server window. Blacklisted servers may still be joined. Only the server name and the blacklist date filter options are shown. 
 
  
−
The bottom part of the window will only show three options for this menu only.
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*'''Map and Game Mode Specific Searches:''' The browser includes filters for narrowing down server searches to particular maps or game modes, catering to players with specific gameplay interests.
 +
*'''Server Tags and Icons:''' Servers are accompanied by descriptive tags and icons, providing at-a-glance information on various server features, such as password protection, [[VAC]] (Valve Anti-Cheat) security status, and [[replay]] support.
  
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*"Import Servers From File" brings up a file browser to open a txt file containing a list of IP addresses to be blacklisted.
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'''Server Information'''
  
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*"Add Current Server" adds the server you are connected to onto the blacklist.
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* '''Server Data:''' The browser presents detailed server information, including the current player count, active map, and ping, to aid players in making informed server selection decisions.
 +
* '''Latency Indicators:''' Latency (ping) indicators are available to assess server performance, assisting in the choice of servers that offer a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.
  
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*"Add a Server" lets you add a server to the blacklist by entering the web address or IP address.
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'''User-Friendly Interface'''
  
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== Main Browser Window ==
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* '''Simplified and Detailed Views:''' Players have the option to toggle between simplified and detailed views of the server list, allowing for a user experience that can be tailored to individual preferences for quick browsing or detailed investigation.
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The top of the list of the server window shows a bar that can be toggled to filter servers alphabetically, numerically, and by icon.
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* '''Convenient Server Management:''' The Server Browser enhances player experience by making it easy to add servers to the Favorites list, blacklist servers, and join games quickly, improving both usability and control over server selection.
  
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=== Password Protected ===
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== Detailed guides ==
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A picture of a golden lock is shown to indicate that a password is needed to enter the server.
 
  
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=== VAC-Secured ===
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=== Main Navigation ===
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A shield showing the server is secured with Valve Anti-Cheat technology. It is not a guarantee that other players using [[Wikipedia:Cheating in online games|unwanted software tampering]] will join, but is a deterrent against said players with the warning that detected tampering will result in a permanent account ban.
+
The Main Navigation bar, located at the top of the server browser, features seven tabs. Each tab displays a unique group of servers, all equipped with identical filtering options, except for the 'Blacklisted Servers' tab. These options are located beneath the lists of servers, allowing for refined searches across different server groups.
  
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=== Server List ===
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;Internet: Generates a list of available servers from the Internet. Servers that do not meet one or more of the filters are temporarily omitted from the results. The list is not generated until "Quick refresh" or "Refresh all" is pressed.  
−
Displays the name of all available servers as the list is updated.
 
  
−
=== Game ===
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;Favorites: Generates a list of all available servers added to the player's "Favorites" list. A specific server can be added to the "Favorites" list by right clicking the server name in the browser and clicking "Add server to favorites".
−
Show what type of game is in play. Normally shows ''Team Fortress 2'' as the main game, but server mods, such as [[Freeze Tag]] and [[Prop Hunt]], may be shown here instead.
 
  
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=== Players ===
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;History: A list of the current status of all the recent servers a player has visited. Servers can be deleted from the list by right-clicking the servers name and left-clicking "Remove server from history".  
−
Shows the current number of players and the maximum number of player slots in a server.
 
  
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=== Map ===
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;Spectate: Not usually used for normal servers. Spectate is a link to servers running the Source TV option. It allows an unlimited amount of players to watch a slightly delayed match running live on the server through a "camera man" (either run by an AI or human). This is often used by competitive groups to allow an audience to view their matches.  
−
Displays the current map being played.
 
  
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=== Latency ===
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;LAN: Looks for a server running on a LAN.  
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Displays the ping, or how long it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server, when the browser was last refreshed.
 
  
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=== Tags ===
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;Friends: Lists which servers a player's friends are currently on.  
−
Shows what tags have been assigned by the server. This is used to some effect to show what features are enabled in a server and to filter out servers that don't have said features. Some common tags include:
 
  
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*cp - This server mainly plays [[Control Point (Game Mode)|Control Point]] mode.
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;Blacklisted Servers: Displays a list of servers that the player has chosen to blacklist, preventing them from appearing in server search results. To blacklist a server, right-click its name and select "Add server to blacklist." The total number of blacklisted servers is displayed alongside the server count in the main server browser window. Although blacklisted, these servers can still be connected to. Only the server name and blacklist date are available as filter options. Below are three exclusive actions within this menu:
−
*ctf - This server mainly plays [[Capture the Flag]] mode.
 
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*Payload (or pl) - This server mainly plays [[Payload]] mode.
 
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*plr - This server mainly plays [[Payload Race]] mode.
 
−
*koth - This server mainly plays [[King of the Hill]] mode.
 
−
*arena - This server mainly plays [[Arena]] mode.
 
−
*alltalk - Players can hear [[voice chat]] from both teams on this server.
 
−
*norespawntime - On this server, there is minimal or no delay between death and respawning.
 
−
*nocrits - This server has critical hits disabled.
 
−
*allcrits - On this server, every hit will be a critical hit.
 
  
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== Bottom Row ==
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::*'''Import Servers From File''' - Opens a file browser to open a {{code|.txt}} file containing a list of IP addresses to be blacklisted.
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These are the filters that can narrow server searches into a tight group of similar servers.
 
  
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=== Tags Bar ===
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::*'''Add Current Server''' - Allows the player to add the server they are currently connected to the blacklist.
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Adding certain words or "Tags" to this bar allows a player to refine searches by special features of listed servers. The first box can be selected to show "include" or "do not include" for the following tags inside the box to the right. The middle box is where a player may enter tags, separating each tag by a comma<tt>,</tt> with no spaces. The third box that says "Add common tags..." is a popup box that shows a list of the most commonly used tags.
 
  
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=== Game ===
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::*'''Add a Server''' - Enables the addition of a server to the blacklist by inputting its web address or IP address.
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This option is grayed out and permanently set to ''Team Fortress 2''.
 
  
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=== Map ===
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=== Server list ===
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Allows a player to type in the name of the desired map, including the map type prefix. The browser will purge any current servers not playing maps with the typed name.
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The server list occupies the central portion of the server browser, accounting for most of its space. At the top of this list, a row featuring titles and icons provides a guide to the contents of the columns below. Users can click on these titles to sort the servers alphabetically, numerically, or by icon.
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{{clr}}
+
 
 +
;Server List: Displays the name of all available servers as the list is updated.
 +
 
 +
;Game: Show what type of game is in play. Normally shows ''Team Fortress 2'' as the main game, but server mods, such as [[Freeze Tag]] and [[Prop Hunt]], may be shown here instead.
 +
 
 +
;Players: Shows the current number of players and the maximum number of player slots in a server.
 +
 
 +
;Bots: Shows the current number of bots in a server.
 +
 
 +
;Map: Displays the current map being played. Note that for Mann vs. Machine servers, the name of the difficulty may get added to the end of the map name (i.e. mvm_coaltown_advanced2).
 +
 
 +
;Latency: Displays the ping, or how long it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server, when the browser was last refreshed.
 +
 
 +
;Tags: Shows what tags have been assigned by the server. This is used to some effect to show what features are enabled in a server and to filter out servers that don't have said features.
 +
 
 +
::{|class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! class="wikitable header"|Tag
 +
! class="wikitable header"|Description
 +
|-
 +
|'''cp''' || This server mainly plays the [[Control Point (Game Mode)|Control Point]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''ctf''' || This server mainly plays the [[Capture the Flag]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''payload''' || This server mainly plays the [[Payload]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''plr''' || This server mainly plays the [[Payload Race]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''koth''' || This server mainly plays the [[King of the Hill]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''arena''' || This server mainly plays the [[Arena]] or the [[VS Saxton Hale Mode (custom game mode)|community Versus Saxton Hale]] game modes.
 +
|-
 +
|'''mvm''' || This server mainly plays the Mann vs. Machine game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''pd''' || This server mainly plays the [[Player Destruction]], [[Tug of War]], or official version of [[Versus Saxton Hale]] game modes.
 +
|-
 +
|'''passtime''' || This server mainly plays the [[PASS Time]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''rd''' || This server mainly plays the [[Robot Destruction]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''sd''' || This server mainly plays the [[Special Delivery]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''tc''' || This server mainly plays the [[Territorial Control]] game mode.
 +
|-
 +
|'''alltalk''' || Players can hear [[voice chat]] from both teams on this server.
 +
|-
 +
|'''norespawntime''' || On this server, there is minimal or no delay between death and respawning.
 +
|-
 +
|'''nocrits''' || This server has Critical hits disabled.
 +
|-
 +
|'''allcrits''' || On this server, every hit will be a Critical hit.
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
;Icons: Displayed on the left-hand side of the server browser are three icons that each indicate information about the server.
 +
 
 +
::*'''Password Protected''' - A picture of a golden lock is shown to indicate that a password is needed to enter the server.
 +
 
 +
::*'''VAC-Secured''' - A shield icon shows the server is secured with Valve Anti-Cheat technology. It is not a guarantee that other players using [[Wikipedia:Cheating in online games|unwanted software tampering]] will not join, but is a deterrent against said players with a warning that detected tampering will result in a permanent account ban.
 +
 
 +
::*'''Replays Enabled''' - An icon of a film reel frame is shown to indicate that the server supports [[Replay]] recording.
 +
 
 +
;Server Info Window: Accessible by attempting to connect to a full server or by right-clicking a server in the server list and selecting 'View server info' from the dropdown menu. This window offers detailed information, including a list of players, their scores, and playtime. If opened due to a full server, an 'Auto-Retry' button appears. Clicking this button presents two options: 'Alert me when a player slot is available,' which notifies the user when a slot opens, and 'Join the server as soon as a player slot is available,' which automatically connects the user to the server once a slot becomes free.
 +
 
 +
=== Filter section ===
 +
At the bottom of the server browser lies the Filter section. This section contains filters designed to refine searches, enabling users to identify a closely matched group of similar servers.
 +
 
 +
;Workshop: Displays subscribed maps from the [[Steam Workshop]] or any maps that were uploaded to the Steam Workshop but not necessarily subscribed by the player. If <All> is selected, it will show the normal server list together with the Steam Workshop maps.
  
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=== Max Player Count ===
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;Tags Bar: Players can refine their server searches by adding specific words or 'Tags' to the search bar, which filter servers by special features. The first dropdown menu allows players to choose between 'include' or 'exclude' for the tags entered in the adjacent box. Tags should be entered in the middle box, separated by commas without spaces. The third element, labeled 'Add common tags…,' opens a list displaying the most commonly used tags.
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Allows players to set a maximum threshold of total player slots per server. Setting the number to 24 will purge any servers from the list that have 25 or more player slots in a server.
 
  
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=== Simplified List ===
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;Game: This option is grayed out and permanently set to ''Team Fortress 2''.
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A clickable box that changes the text list into a picture list showing the map and groups of servers playing on that map, with the most optimal server based on filters showing first.
 
  
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[[File:Simplified Server List.png|left|500px]]
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;Map: Allows a player to type in the name of the desired map, including the map type prefix. The browser will purge any current servers not playing maps with the typed name.
 
{{clr}}
 
{{clr}}
  
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=== Latency ===
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;Max Player Count: Allows players to set a maximum threshold of total player slots per server. Setting the number to 24 will purge any servers from the list that have 25 or more player slots in a server.
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The time it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server. Omits servers which have ping above the filter's limit.
 
  
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=== Location ===
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;Simplified List: A clickable box that changes the text list into a picture list showing the map and groups of servers playing on that map, with the most optimal server based on filters showing first.
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Can be selected to give a general location of where a particular server is located.
 
  
−
Selectable locations are:
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::[[File:Simplified Server List.png|left|500px]]
 +
{{clr}}
 +
;Latency: The time it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server. Omits servers which have ping above the filter's limit.
  
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*'''<All>''': Displays all servers no matter which location. The box is left blank.
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;Location: Can be selected to give a general location of where a particular server is located.
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*'''US - East''': Relatively eastern part of the United States.
 
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*'''US - West''': Relatively western part of the United States.
 
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*'''South America''': Includes Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, and others.
 
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*'''Europe''': Includes the United Kingdom, France, Norway, Germany, Spain, Russia, and others.
 
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*'''Asia''': Includes China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and others.
 
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*'''Australia''': Includes New Zealand and others.
 
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*'''Middle East''': Includes Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, and others.
 
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*'''Africa''': Includes over 50 countries on the African continent.
 
  
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=== Anti-Cheat ===
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::{|class="wikitable"
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Selects a server with or without [[Wikipedia:Valve_Anti-Cheat | VAC]].
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|-
 +
! class="wikitable header"|Location
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! class="wikitable header"|Description
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|-
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|'''<All>''' || Displays all servers no matter which location. The box is left blank.
 +
|-
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|'''US - East''' || Relatively eastern part of the United States.
 +
|-
 +
|'''US - West''' || Relatively western part of the United States.
 +
|-
 +
|'''South America''' || Includes Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, and others.
 +
|-
 +
|'''Europe''' || Includes the United Kingdom, France, Norway, Germany, Spain, Russia, and others.
 +
|-
 +
|'''Asia''' || Includes China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and others.
 +
|-
 +
|'''Australia''' || Includes New Zealand and others.
 +
|-
 +
|'''Middle East''' || Includes Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, and others.
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|-
 +
|'''Africa''' || Includes over 50 countries on the African continent.
 +
|}
 +
;Anti-Cheat: Selects a server with or without VAC.
  
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=== Server Not Full ===
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;Server Not Full: When checked, servers with no available player slots will be hidden.
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When checked, will not show servers that have no available player slots.
 
  
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=== Has Users Playing ===
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;Has Users Playing: When checked, servers with no players will be hidden.
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When checked, will not show servers that have no players on them.
 
  
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=== Is Not Password Protected ===
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;Is Not Password Protected: When checked, servers that require a password to join will be hidden.  
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When checked, will not show servers that require a password to join.  
 
  
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=== Filters Button ===
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;Filters Button: The filters button shows and hides options for the server configuration. Options include max players, password protected, VAC-secure, server full, has users playing, map, and tags, e.g [[bots]].
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The filters button shows and hides options for the server configuration. Options include max players, password protected, [[VAC]]-secure, server full, has users playing, map, and tags, e.g [[bots]].
 
  
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=== Refresh ===
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;Refresh: Completely refreshes the list of servers, updating all of the server data.
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Completely refreshes the list of servers, updating all the server data.
 
  
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=== Quick/Stop Refresh ===
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;Quick/Stop Refresh: Refreshes only the current servers listed.
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Refreshes only the current servers listed.
 
  
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=== Connect ===
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;Connect: Connects to the currently selected server in the server browser; if the server is full, it shows the "Server Info" tab instead.
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Connects to the current selected server; if the server is full, it shows the "Server Info" tab.  
 
  
 
== Update history ==
 
== Update history ==
−
{{update history|1=
+
{{Update history|'''{{Patch name|10|5|2007}}'''
−
'''{{Patch name|10|5|2007}}'''
+
* Fixed columns and row bunching up in server browser.
−
* Fixed columns and row bunching up in server browser
 
  
 
'''{{Patch name|2|28|2008}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|2|28|2008}}'''
Line 144: Line 191:
 
** Servers can now specify metatags describing the custom rules they've adopted.
 
** Servers can now specify metatags describing the custom rules they've adopted.
 
** Players can use tag filtering to find servers running the custom rules they want to play.
 
** Players can use tag filtering to find servers running the custom rules they want to play.
−
** Added options for servers who want to become custom games: Disable critical hits (tf_weapon_criticals), eliminate respawn times (mp_disable_respawn_times), and raise maxplayers above 24.
+
** Added options for servers who want to become custom games: Disable Critical hits ({{code|tf_weapon_criticals}}), eliminate respawn times ({{code|mp_disable_respawn_times}}), and raise {{code|maxplayers}} above 24.
  
 
'''{{Patch name|2|29|2008}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|2|29|2008}}'''
−
* Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the server browser not correctly displaying the server info when going back and forth between the two tabs
+
* Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the server browser not correctly displaying the server info when going back and forth between the two tabs.
  
 
'''{{Patch name|3|6|2008}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|3|6|2008}}'''
−
* Removed sv_alltalk from the list of convars that affect custom server tags
+
* Removed sv_alltalk from the list of convars that affect custom server tags.
−
* Updated the URL used for the "Click for more info on custom servers" link on the Custom tab
+
* Updated the URL used for the "Click for more info on custom servers" link on the Custom tab.
−
* Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the Server Browser not correctly displaying the server information for servers when going back and forth between the two tabs
+
* Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the Server Browser not correctly displaying the server information for servers when going back and forth between the two tabs.
−
* Fixed SourceTV servers not being displayed in the Spectate tab for servers with custom server tags
+
* Fixed SourceTV servers not being displayed in the Spectate tab for servers with custom server tags.
−
* Fixed servers with maxplayers <= 24 that are running SourceTV having the "increased_maxplayers" tag added for their server
+
* Fixed servers with maxplayers <nowiki><=</nowiki> 24 that are running SourceTV having the "increased_maxplayers" tag added for their server.
  
 
'''{{Patch name|3|20|2008}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|3|20|2008}}'''
−
* Replace underscores in map names with spaces so custom maps with names like cp_gravel_pit will show as "GRAVEL PIT"
+
* Replace underscores in map names with spaces so custom maps with names like cp_gravel_pit will show as "GRAVEL PIT".
  
 
'''{{Patch name|4|1|2008}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|4|1|2008}}'''
Line 169: Line 216:
  
 
'''{{patch name|1|6|2010}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|1|6|2010}}'''
−
* Added a client-side [[server]] blacklist  
+
* Added a client-side [[server]] blacklist.
−
** Supports blacklisting of specific servers, all servers on an IP, and all servers on a class C range  
+
** Supports blacklisting of specific servers, all servers on an IP, and all servers on a class C range.
−
** Saves the server list to a file, and has an Import button to allow easy sharing (cfg\server_blacklist.txt)
+
** Saves the server list to a file, and has an Import button to allow easy sharing (cfg\server_blacklist.txt).
  
 
'''{{Patch name|5|27|2010}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|5|27|2010}}'''
Line 187: Line 234:
  
 
'''{{patch name|11|10|2010}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|11|10|2010}}'''
−
* Updated the server browser localization files
+
* Updated the server browser localization files.
  
 
'''{{patch name|1|24|2011}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|1|24|2011}}'''
−
* Added missing chalkboard/serverbrowser materials for [[5Gorge]]
+
* Added missing chalkboard/serverbrowser materials for {{map link|5Gorge}}.
  
 
'''{{patch name|6|27|2011}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|6|27|2011}}'''
−
* Fixed server browser not including [[servers]] from all regions with the location "All" selected
+
* Fixed server browser not including servers from all regions with the location "All" selected.
  
−
'''{{patch name|8|15|2011}}'''
+
'''{{patch name|8|15|2011}} #1'''
−
* Patch 1
+
* Fixed zombie players created when banning players, causing player count in the server browser to be incorrect.
−
** Fixed zombie players created when banning players, causing player count in the server browser to be incorrect
 
  
 
'''{{patch name|1|26|2012}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|1|26|2012}}'''
−
* Changed the way [[bot]] counts are displayed in the server browser: the bot column is now next to the player column and always visible. Bot count is no longer subtracted from maxplayers.<ref "serverbrowser">This introduced a bug which shifted icons around, most notably replacing the [[replay]] icon with the password icon.</ref>
+
* Changed the way [[bot]] counts are displayed in the server browser: the bot column is now next to the player column and always visible. Bot count is no longer subtracted from maxplayers.<ref name="serverbrowser">This introduced a bug which shifted icons around, most notably replacing the [[replay]] icon with the password icon.</ref>
  
 
'''{{patch name|1|27|2012}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|1|27|2012}}'''
−
* Fixed a bug with the [[Replay]] icon
+
* Fixed a bug with the Replay icon.
−
 
 
−
'''{{patch name|8|17|2012}}'''
 
  
−
'''Patch 1'''
+
'''{{patch name|8|17|2012}} #1'''
−
* Updated the matchmaking ConVar <code>tf_mm_strict</code>  
+
* Updated the matchmaking ConVar <code>tf_mm_strict</code>.
−
** A value of 2 will hide the [[server]] from the server browser but will still allow direct connections
+
** A value of 2 will hide the server from the server browser but will still allow direct connections.
  
−
'''Patch 2'''
+
'''{{patch name|8|17|2012}} #2'''
−
* Fixed a bug where rejected players could leave a "ghost" player that takes up a slot on the server browser
+
* Fixed a bug where rejected players could leave a "ghost" player that takes up a slot on the server browser.
  
 
'''{{patch name|8|21|2012}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|8|21|2012}}'''
−
* Fixed the server browser showing an incorrect player count in [[Mann vs. Machine (game mode)|MvM]] games
+
* Fixed the server browser showing an incorrect player count in [[Mann vs. Machine (game mode)|MvM]] games.
  
 
'''{{patch name|8|23|2012}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|8|23|2012}}'''
−
* Server browser will now show MvM mission name in the "map" column. (E.g. "mvm_mannworks_advanced")
+
* Server browser will now show MvM mission name in the "map" column. (E.g. "mvm_mannworks_advanced").
  
 
'''{{Patch name|9|4|2012}}'''
 
'''{{Patch name|9|4|2012}}'''
−
* Fixed [[bots]] not displaying in the server browser properly
+
* Fixed bots not displaying in the server browser properly.
−
* [[Mann vs. Machine (game mode)|MvM]] changes
+
* MvM changes.
−
** Fixed an issue in the Server Browser where replay bots would add to the player count
+
** Fixed an issue in the Server Browser where replay bots would add to the player count.
  
 
'''{{patch name|9|21|2012}}'''
 
'''{{patch name|9|21|2012}}'''
−
* Fix bug allowing server browser network activity to continue after choosing a server
+
* Fix bug allowing server browser network activity to continue after choosing a server.
−
}}
+
 
 +
'''{{patch name|6|2|2015}}'''
 +
* {{Undocumented}} Added "Workshop" filter to the Server Browser.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 238: Line 284:
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
  
−
[[Category:GUI]] <!-- ?? -->
+
[[Category:GUI]]

Latest revision as of 14:52, 10 November 2024

The Server Browser in Team Fortress 2 (Note: Screenshot from 2015).

The Steam Server Browser is an available Main Menu option that allows a player to search from a list of available servers and find a map or game mode of their choosing. Beyond basic searching, the server browser is equipped with a range of customizable filters, such as location, ping, player count, and more, allowing for a refined search experience tailored to individual preferences and requirements.

Features overview

The Steam Server Browser in Team Fortress 2 provides a comprehensive suite of tools for players to locate, filter, and join game servers. Below are the key functionalities offered by the Server Browser.

Comprehensive Server Search

  • Customizable Filters: Players can refine their search using various filters, such as server location, game mode, map type, ping, and others. This enables the identification of servers that align with individual gameplay preferences and connectivity requirements.
  • Favorites and History: The Server Browser allows for easy tracking of preferred and recently visited servers through the Favorites list and History tab, facilitating quick access to favored servers and streamlining the start of a game session.

Diverse Server Selection

  • Internet and LAN (Local Area Network) Searches: The Server Browser supports the discovery of servers on both global and local (LAN) networks, accommodating players' preferences for either online gameplay or localized LAN sessions.
  • Spectate and Friends Tabs: Features include tabs for joining servers where friends are currently playing and for entering Spectate mode to view live matches via Source TV, enhancing the community and social aspects of the game.

Advanced Filtering Options

  • Map and Game Mode Specific Searches: The browser includes filters for narrowing down server searches to particular maps or game modes, catering to players with specific gameplay interests.
  • Server Tags and Icons: Servers are accompanied by descriptive tags and icons, providing at-a-glance information on various server features, such as password protection, VAC (Valve Anti-Cheat) security status, and replay support.

Server Information

  • Server Data: The browser presents detailed server information, including the current player count, active map, and ping, to aid players in making informed server selection decisions.
  • Latency Indicators: Latency (ping) indicators are available to assess server performance, assisting in the choice of servers that offer a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.

User-Friendly Interface

  • Simplified and Detailed Views: Players have the option to toggle between simplified and detailed views of the server list, allowing for a user experience that can be tailored to individual preferences for quick browsing or detailed investigation.
  • Convenient Server Management: The Server Browser enhances player experience by making it easy to add servers to the Favorites list, blacklist servers, and join games quickly, improving both usability and control over server selection.

Detailed guides

Main Navigation

The Main Navigation bar, located at the top of the server browser, features seven tabs. Each tab displays a unique group of servers, all equipped with identical filtering options, except for the 'Blacklisted Servers' tab. These options are located beneath the lists of servers, allowing for refined searches across different server groups.

Internet
Generates a list of available servers from the Internet. Servers that do not meet one or more of the filters are temporarily omitted from the results. The list is not generated until "Quick refresh" or "Refresh all" is pressed.
Favorites
Generates a list of all available servers added to the player's "Favorites" list. A specific server can be added to the "Favorites" list by right clicking the server name in the browser and clicking "Add server to favorites".
History
A list of the current status of all the recent servers a player has visited. Servers can be deleted from the list by right-clicking the servers name and left-clicking "Remove server from history".
Spectate
Not usually used for normal servers. Spectate is a link to servers running the Source TV option. It allows an unlimited amount of players to watch a slightly delayed match running live on the server through a "camera man" (either run by an AI or human). This is often used by competitive groups to allow an audience to view their matches.
LAN
Looks for a server running on a LAN.
Friends
Lists which servers a player's friends are currently on.
Blacklisted Servers
Displays a list of servers that the player has chosen to blacklist, preventing them from appearing in server search results. To blacklist a server, right-click its name and select "Add server to blacklist." The total number of blacklisted servers is displayed alongside the server count in the main server browser window. Although blacklisted, these servers can still be connected to. Only the server name and blacklist date are available as filter options. Below are three exclusive actions within this menu:
  • Import Servers From File - Opens a file browser to open a .txt file containing a list of IP addresses to be blacklisted.
  • Add Current Server - Allows the player to add the server they are currently connected to the blacklist.
  • Add a Server - Enables the addition of a server to the blacklist by inputting its web address or IP address.

Server list

The server list occupies the central portion of the server browser, accounting for most of its space. At the top of this list, a row featuring titles and icons provides a guide to the contents of the columns below. Users can click on these titles to sort the servers alphabetically, numerically, or by icon.

Server List
Displays the name of all available servers as the list is updated.
Game
Show what type of game is in play. Normally shows Team Fortress 2 as the main game, but server mods, such as Freeze Tag and Prop Hunt, may be shown here instead.
Players
Shows the current number of players and the maximum number of player slots in a server.
Bots
Shows the current number of bots in a server.
Map
Displays the current map being played. Note that for Mann vs. Machine servers, the name of the difficulty may get added to the end of the map name (i.e. mvm_coaltown_advanced2).
Latency
Displays the ping, or how long it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server, when the browser was last refreshed.
Tags
Shows what tags have been assigned by the server. This is used to some effect to show what features are enabled in a server and to filter out servers that don't have said features.
Tag Description
cp This server mainly plays the Control Point game mode.
ctf This server mainly plays the Capture the Flag game mode.
payload This server mainly plays the Payload game mode.
plr This server mainly plays the Payload Race game mode.
koth This server mainly plays the King of the Hill game mode.
arena This server mainly plays the Arena or the community Versus Saxton Hale game modes.
mvm This server mainly plays the Mann vs. Machine game mode.
pd This server mainly plays the Player Destruction, Tug of War, or official version of Versus Saxton Hale game modes.
passtime This server mainly plays the PASS Time game mode.
rd This server mainly plays the Robot Destruction game mode.
sd This server mainly plays the Special Delivery game mode.
tc This server mainly plays the Territorial Control game mode.
alltalk Players can hear voice chat from both teams on this server.
norespawntime On this server, there is minimal or no delay between death and respawning.
nocrits This server has Critical hits disabled.
allcrits On this server, every hit will be a Critical hit.
Icons
Displayed on the left-hand side of the server browser are three icons that each indicate information about the server.
  • Password Protected - A picture of a golden lock is shown to indicate that a password is needed to enter the server.
  • VAC-Secured - A shield icon shows the server is secured with Valve Anti-Cheat technology. It is not a guarantee that other players using unwanted software tampering will not join, but is a deterrent against said players with a warning that detected tampering will result in a permanent account ban.
  • Replays Enabled - An icon of a film reel frame is shown to indicate that the server supports Replay recording.
Server Info Window
Accessible by attempting to connect to a full server or by right-clicking a server in the server list and selecting 'View server info' from the dropdown menu. This window offers detailed information, including a list of players, their scores, and playtime. If opened due to a full server, an 'Auto-Retry' button appears. Clicking this button presents two options: 'Alert me when a player slot is available,' which notifies the user when a slot opens, and 'Join the server as soon as a player slot is available,' which automatically connects the user to the server once a slot becomes free.

Filter section

At the bottom of the server browser lies the Filter section. This section contains filters designed to refine searches, enabling users to identify a closely matched group of similar servers.

Workshop
Displays subscribed maps from the Steam Workshop or any maps that were uploaded to the Steam Workshop but not necessarily subscribed by the player. If <All> is selected, it will show the normal server list together with the Steam Workshop maps.
Tags Bar
Players can refine their server searches by adding specific words or 'Tags' to the search bar, which filter servers by special features. The first dropdown menu allows players to choose between 'include' or 'exclude' for the tags entered in the adjacent box. Tags should be entered in the middle box, separated by commas without spaces. The third element, labeled 'Add common tags…,' opens a list displaying the most commonly used tags.
Game
This option is grayed out and permanently set to Team Fortress 2.
Map
Allows a player to type in the name of the desired map, including the map type prefix. The browser will purge any current servers not playing maps with the typed name.
Max Player Count
Allows players to set a maximum threshold of total player slots per server. Setting the number to 24 will purge any servers from the list that have 25 or more player slots in a server.
Simplified List
A clickable box that changes the text list into a picture list showing the map and groups of servers playing on that map, with the most optimal server based on filters showing first.
Simplified Server List.png
Latency
The time it takes to send and receive packets to and from the server. Omits servers which have ping above the filter's limit.
Location
Can be selected to give a general location of where a particular server is located.
Location Description
<All> Displays all servers no matter which location. The box is left blank.
US - East Relatively eastern part of the United States.
US - West Relatively western part of the United States.
South America Includes Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, and others.
Europe Includes the United Kingdom, France, Norway, Germany, Spain, Russia, and others.
Asia Includes China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and others.
Australia Includes New Zealand and others.
Middle East Includes Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, and others.
Africa Includes over 50 countries on the African continent.
Anti-Cheat
Selects a server with or without VAC.
Server Not Full
When checked, servers with no available player slots will be hidden.
Has Users Playing
When checked, servers with no players will be hidden.
Is Not Password Protected
When checked, servers that require a password to join will be hidden.
Filters Button
The filters button shows and hides options for the server configuration. Options include max players, password protected, VAC-secure, server full, has users playing, map, and tags, e.g bots.
Refresh
Completely refreshes the list of servers, updating all of the server data.
Quick/Stop Refresh
Refreshes only the current servers listed.
Connect
Connects to the currently selected server in the server browser; if the server is full, it shows the "Server Info" tab instead.

Update history

October 5, 2007 Patch
  • Fixed columns and row bunching up in server browser.

February 28, 2008 Patch

  • Added "Custom" tab to the server browser.
    • Servers can now specify metatags describing the custom rules they've adopted.
    • Players can use tag filtering to find servers running the custom rules they want to play.
    • Added options for servers who want to become custom games: Disable Critical hits (tf_weapon_criticals), eliminate respawn times (mp_disable_respawn_times), and raise maxplayers above 24.

February 29, 2008 Patch

  • Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the server browser not correctly displaying the server info when going back and forth between the two tabs.

March 6, 2008 Patch

  • Removed sv_alltalk from the list of convars that affect custom server tags.
  • Updated the URL used for the "Click for more info on custom servers" link on the Custom tab.
  • Fixed Internet and Custom tabs in the Server Browser not correctly displaying the server information for servers when going back and forth between the two tabs.
  • Fixed SourceTV servers not being displayed in the Spectate tab for servers with custom server tags.
  • Fixed servers with maxplayers <= 24 that are running SourceTV having the "increased_maxplayers" tag added for their server.

March 20, 2008 Patch

  • Replace underscores in map names with spaces so custom maps with names like cp_gravel_pit will show as "GRAVEL PIT".

April 1, 2008 Patch

  • Added Custom Tab explanation dialog to be shown the first time the server browser is opened

January 12, 2009 Patch

  • Added a Quick List view to the server browser.

May 21, 2009 Patch

  • Removed "Final" from map names in the serverbrowser quick list.

January 6, 2010 Patch

  • Added a client-side server blacklist.
    • Supports blacklisting of specific servers, all servers on an IP, and all servers on a class C range.
    • Saves the server list to a file, and has an Import button to allow easy sharing (cfg\server_blacklist.txt).

May 27, 2010 Patch

  • Fixed a crash caused by leaving the server browser open while playing.

June 26, 2010 Patch

  • [Undocumented] New filter option: "Max Player Count".
  • [Undocumented] New option: "Simplified list".

July 21, 2010 Patch

  • Fixed the server browser not saving filter settings properly.

October 6, 2010 Patch

  • The Server Browser now sorts by ping by default once again.

November 10, 2010 Patch

  • Updated the server browser localization files.

January 24, 2011 Patch

  • Added missing chalkboard/serverbrowser materials for 5Gorge.

June 27, 2011 Patch

  • Fixed server browser not including servers from all regions with the location "All" selected.

August 15, 2011 Patch #1

  • Fixed zombie players created when banning players, causing player count in the server browser to be incorrect.

January 26, 2012 Patch

  • Changed the way bot counts are displayed in the server browser: the bot column is now next to the player column and always visible. Bot count is no longer subtracted from maxplayers.[1]

January 27, 2012 Patch

  • Fixed a bug with the Replay icon.

August 17, 2012 Patch #1

  • Updated the matchmaking ConVar tf_mm_strict.
    • A value of 2 will hide the server from the server browser but will still allow direct connections.

August 17, 2012 Patch #2

  • Fixed a bug where rejected players could leave a "ghost" player that takes up a slot on the server browser.

August 21, 2012 Patch

  • Fixed the server browser showing an incorrect player count in MvM games.

August 23, 2012 Patch

  • Server browser will now show MvM mission name in the "map" column. (E.g. "mvm_mannworks_advanced").

September 4, 2012 Patch

  • Fixed bots not displaying in the server browser properly.
  • MvM changes.
    • Fixed an issue in the Server Browser where replay bots would add to the player count.

September 21, 2012 Patch

  • Fix bug allowing server browser network activity to continue after choosing a server.

June 2, 2015 Patch

  • [Undocumented] Added "Workshop" filter to the Server Browser.

See also

References

  1. ↑ This introduced a bug which shifted icons around, most notably replacing the replay icon with the password icon.
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