iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Godlike.Host offers hosted Squad servers with its own game panel, SFTP access and free DDoS protection, if you would rather not host it yourself.
Squad server administration is built around two tools: the in-game console for immediate actions and the files and RCON interface under SquadGame/ServerConfig for persistent or remote control. Open the console by double-tapping the tilde/backtick key, then use an administrator account with the required access group for moderation, map changes, configuration, or server operations.
This guide explains the command syntax, access levels, layer control, Admins.cfg, RCON setup, and practical recovery steps. Command names and permissions below follow the Squad Wiki server-administration reference; configuration locations and RCON fields follow the server-configuration reference.
How to open the Squad admin console
While connected to your server, double-tap the tilde/backtick key (~ or `, normally the key immediately below Esc). A console prompt appears over the game view. Type a command and press Enter. The command history can be recalled with the keyboard arrow keys, which is useful when repeating a broadcast or correcting a similar command.
Keyboard layouts and client bindings can prevent the tilde key from opening the console. The documented workaround is to open All Chat, press Backspace, and then use the resulting console input. If neither method works, verify that the game window has focus, test the key in a text field, and check the keyboard layout selected by the operating system.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application:Upgraded attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Warranty & Support: Our Electric air duster comes with 5 years warranty and 24/7 customer service. During this period, if you have any questions,pls kindly feel free to contact us.
The console accepts both public commands and administrative commands. Public commands are available to ordinary players. Administrative commands are evaluated against the access groups assigned to the executing administrator, so seeing the console does not by itself grant permission to kick, ban, change a layer, or alter server settings.
For the complete command list and current access labels, use the Squad Wiki Server Administration page. Server updates can add, remove, or rename commands, so check the reference that matches your server version before building scripts or staff procedures.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →How Squad command permissions work
Administrators are identified in Admins.cfg and assigned one or more access groups. Grant the smallest set of rights needed for a person’s role rather than giving every moderator full server-management authority. The documented groups include the following.
| Access group | Typical authority |
|---|---|
changemap |
Change the current layer or set the next layer. |
kick |
Remove a player from the server. |
ban |
Apply temporary or permanent bans. |
chat |
Send server-wide administrative messages. |
config |
Change supported live configuration values, such as the maximum player count. |
pause |
Use pause-related administrative controls. |
manageserver |
Perform broader server-management operations. |
cameraman |
Use cameraman or observer-related controls. |
reserve |
Use reserved-slot administration. |
| Other documented groups | Additional rights listed by the current command table. |
Access is checked when the command is run. If a command returns an authorization error, verify the account’s entry and group name in Admins.cfg, then reconnect or restart the server if the change is not recognized immediately. Keep a private record of which role receives which group so that an emergency administrator can reproduce the intended permissions.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
Essential moderation and operations commands
Enter each command exactly as shown, replacing the angle-bracket values with real data. Names can be ambiguous; where available, use the Steam ID form to target the intended player.
| Command | Syntax | Result | Required access |
|---|---|---|---|
AdminKick |
AdminKick <NameOrSteamId> <KickReason> |
Removes the specified player from the server with the supplied reason. | kick |
AdminKickById |
AdminKickById <SteamId> <KickReason> |
Kicks a player by Steam ID, avoiding duplicate-name errors. | kick |
AdminBan |
AdminBan <NameOrSteamId> <BanLength> <BanReason> |
Bans a player for the specified duration. A length of 0 is permanent; documented examples include 1d and 1M. |
ban |
AdminBanById |
AdminBanById <SteamId> <BanLength> <BanReason> |
Applies the same duration-based ban using a Steam ID. | ban |
AdminBroadcast |
AdminBroadcast <Message> |
Sends a system message to everyone on the server. | chat |
AdminChangeLayer |
AdminChangeLayer <LayerName> |
Moves immediately to the specified layer. | changemap |
AdminSetNextLayer |
AdminSetNextLayer <LayerName> |
Sets the layer that will load next instead of changing the current match immediately. | changemap |
AdminSetMaxNumPlayers |
AdminSetMaxNumPlayers <NumPlayers> |
Changes the server’s maximum player count. | config |
Reasons and broadcast text should be concise and operationally useful. For a kick or ban, include the rule or incident category rather than private personal information. Before using a permanent ban, confirm the target Steam ID and your community’s appeal policy; AdminBan with 0 has no expiry.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Immediate map changes versus the next layer
Change the current match immediately
Use AdminChangeLayer when the current layer is broken, an event has ended, or the server must move without waiting for the match to finish:
AdminChangeLayer <LayerName>This is disruptive: players are moved into the new layer immediately. Confirm the exact layer identifier used by the server, because internal layer IDs are not always identical to the display name shown in a browser or community schedule.
Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
Schedule the next match
Use AdminSetNextLayer when the current match should continue:
AdminSetNextLayer <LayerName>With layer voting enabled, selecting a next layer prevents the normal voting stage for that transition. The setting therefore overrides the expected vote and should be announced with AdminBroadcast when players need advance notice.
Faction-aware layer syntax
Some layers require faction arguments. The configuration documentation shows this form:
AdminSetNextLayer Anvil_AAS_v1 BAF INSHere, Anvil_AAS_v1 is the layer ID and BAF and INS identify the factions. Copy the exact ID and faction tokens from the server’s rotation or layer configuration rather than relying on a shortened map name.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
Where Squad server configuration files live
Dedicated-server configuration files are stored under:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
SquadGame/ServerConfigThe directory normally contains the files below. File names and syntax should be preserved exactly; make a backup before editing and stop the server when a change requires a restart.
| File | Purpose |
|---|---|
Admins.cfg |
Administrator identities and their access groups. |
Bans.cfg |
Persistent ban records. |
Rcon.cfg |
RCON bind address, port, password, connection limit, and timeout checks. |
Server.cfg |
General server settings. |
| Layer-rotation files | Maps and layers used by the rotation. |
| Level-rotation files | Level order and related rotation data. |
| Voting files | Layer or map voting behavior. |
The Squad Wiki Server Configuration page describes the file layout and the options supported by the dedicated server. Treat the files as version-sensitive: an option accepted by one release may be ignored or renamed after an update.
Configure administrators in Admins.cfg
- Stop or prepare the server for a configuration edit. Use your host’s normal stop procedure and preserve a copy of the existing file.
- Open
SquadGame/ServerConfig/Admins.cfg. Follow the identity and group format shown in the file or the current configuration reference; do not add explanatory punctuation or alter separators. - Add the administrator identity. Use the account identifier expected by the server, preferably a stable Steam ID rather than a display name that can change.
- Assign minimum access. A moderator who only handles misconduct needs
kickand possiblyban; a map manager needschangemap; a staff member changing live limits needsconfig. - Save, start, and verify. Connect with the account, open the console, run a harmless permitted command, and confirm that an intentionally disallowed command is rejected.
Do not distribute Admins.cfg in public support channels. It reveals the administrative identity and permission structure even when it contains no passwords.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
Configure RCON for remote administration
RCON provides a remote command path separate from the in-game console. It is useful when an administrator is not connected as a player, but it exposes a network service that must be protected with firewall rules, a strong password, and limited access.
Recommended Free Tools
Rcon.cfg fields
| Field | What to set | Documented detail |
|---|---|---|
| IP | Bind address for the RCON listener. | Use the address appropriate for your host and network design. |
| Port | TCP/UDP port used by the RCON service, matching the client and launch arguments. | The documented default is 21114. |
| Password | Secret required by RCON clients. | An empty Password= disables RCON; the configuration documentation explicitly recommends leaving it empty when RCON is not wanted. |
| MaxConnections | Maximum simultaneous RCON connections. | The documentation uses 5 as an example setting, not a universal requirement. |
| Timeout checks | Interval used to detect inactive or failed connections. | The documentation shows 120 seconds as an example. |
The values 21114, 5, and 120 are documented defaults or examples, not usage statistics. Confirm the exact key names and syntax in your installed file and version at Server Configuration.
RCON setup procedure
- Install or update the dedicated server. Follow the SteamCMD process in the Squad Wiki Server Installation guide.
- Locate the configuration directory. Open
SquadGame/ServerConfigand back upRcon.cfg,Admins.cfg, and the other rotation and server files. - Set the listener and secret. Choose the bind IP, set a non-empty high-entropy password, and select a port. Keep
Password=empty if remote administration is not required. - Match the launch argument. When required by the installation, start the server with
RCONPORT=<port>using the same port configured inRcon.cfg. - Restrict network access. Allow the selected port only from trusted administrator addresses or a private management network. Do not expose an unused RCON listener to the public internet.
- Test from an approved client. Authenticate, run a low-risk command such as a broadcast to staff, and verify that the server logs the connection and command.
- Rotate credentials after staff changes. Change the RCON password when an administrator leaves or a credential may have been exposed.
If RCON fails, check the three values that must agree: the configured port, the RCONPORT launch argument when required, and the firewall or host-network rule. An empty password intentionally turns the service off, so a client cannot authenticate until a password is configured.
In-game console, RCON, and automation: which approach fits?
| Approach | Access scope | Immediacy | Auditability | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-game console | Available to a connected administrator with the relevant access group. | Immediate for kicks, broadcasts, and current-layer changes. | Usually manual; review depends on server logs and staff notes. | Accidental disruptive commands while under pressure. |
| Remote RCON | Separate network service for approved remote clients. | Immediate without joining as a player. | Can be centralized in RCON-client logs. | Credential theft or an exposed management port. |
| Discord or scripted integration | Role- or identifier-based access in an external tool. | Fast, but dependent on the integration and network. | Strong potential for channel history and automation logs. | Third-party bugs, stale permissions, or incompatibility after a server update. |
The open-source SquadJS project documents a DiscordRcon plugin that turns a specified Discord channel into an RCON console and supports command permissions by Discord role or identifier. Treat it as a third-party integration: pin its configuration, restrict the channel, and test it against the exact Squad server version before using it for production moderation.
Common failures and recovery steps
The console will not open
- Double-tap, rather than single-tap, the tilde/backtick key.
- Confirm the game window has focus and the operating-system keyboard layout matches the physical keyboard.
- Open All Chat, press Backspace, and try entering the command through the documented workaround.
- Use the arrow keys to recall a previous command once the prompt is visible.
The command is rejected
- Check capitalization, spacing, and the argument order against the current command table.
- Confirm the account has the required group in
Admins.cfg. - Reconnect or restart if the server has not reloaded the administrator file.
- For a map command, verify the internal layer ID and any required faction arguments.
A player cannot be identified reliably
Use AdminKickById or AdminBanById with the player’s Steam ID instead of a display name. This avoids acting on the wrong player when names are duplicated, contain unusual characters, or change during a session.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe wrong layer loads
- Check whether an earlier
AdminSetNextLayeris still active. - Confirm the exact layer ID in the rotation files, including version suffixes such as
_v1. - Check faction tokens for faction-aware layers.
- Remember that setting the next layer bypasses the normal layer-voting stage when voting is enabled.
RCON cannot connect
- Ensure
Password=is not empty when RCON should be enabled. - Match
Rcon.cfgandRCONPORT=<port>exactly where the installation requires the launch argument. - Open the selected port only on the required interface and verify host firewall rules.
- Check the connection limit and timeout settings if clients connect and then are dropped.
- Review server logs for bind failures, authentication errors, or a port already in use.
Operational checklist for server owners
- Back up
SquadGame/ServerConfigbefore changing administrators, bans, rotations, or RCON. - Give each staff member only the access groups needed for their duties.
- Use Steam IDs for moderation commands whenever possible.
- Record the reason and duration for every ban; use
0only when a permanent ban is justified under your rules. - Announce forced layer changes so players understand why a vote was skipped or a match ended early.
- Keep RCON disabled with an empty password when no remote tool is required.
- If RCON is enabled, use a strong unique password, restrict source addresses, and rotate credentials after staff turnover.
- Test configuration changes on the exact server build you operate, especially after game updates.
- Review third-party automation permissions and logs as carefully as in-game administrator permissions.
For command syntax, access labels, and administrative behavior, consult the Server Administration reference. For file names, RCON settings, layer IDs, and voting behavior, consult Server Configuration; for installation and launch requirements, consult Server Installation.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
