CSGames.LT Counter-Strike: News, Downloads & Reviews.
You might think tournament PCs are just like your own computer. However, a new Reddit post proves you wrong. Specifically, the community found a way to see inside the box. Indeed, they explain exactly how ESL locks down these machines. You can also read about the latest CS2 cheating scandals here.
To begin with, check the secrets.
A Clean Windows System
Obviously, these computers do not run normal Windows. Instead, they use a special version called Windows 11 24H2 LTSC IoT. Clearly, this is very different from what you see at home. Meanwhile, ESL staff runs scripts to delete useless apps. Additionally, they kill background tasks that slow things down. As a result, the PC only focuses on one thing: the game.
Furthermore, the system is much faster because of this. Consequently, you will not see random crashes or lag spikes during a match.
The Hardware Lockdown
Likewise, look at the hardware lockdown. After all, they protect the machine at the lowest level. Moreover, they set a password on the BIOS. Thus, anyone from changing the boot order gets stopped. Naturally, a player cannot plug in a USB drive to run a virus. Anyway, the computer simply will not read it. So, the system stays safe before you even log in. See how other players get away with cheating and why these rules matter.
Plus, look at the storage rules:
- Every player gets their own clean SSD.
- Nobody has administrator rights.
- You cannot save files in the wrong folders.
Therefore, a pro player can break nothing. The staff keeps full control over the hardware.
Network and App Limits
Now, let’s talk about the internet connection too. Simply put, ESL blocks almost everything on the network. Specifically, the PC only talks to Steam and Valve servers. Otherwise, it cuts off all other websites. Therefore, hackers cannot connect remotely.
Besides that, the software list is very short:
- The game client is read-only. You cannot edit the files.
- A whitelist allows only TeamSpeak and Steam to run.
- Scripts and command tools are totally banned.
Basically, you do not have the power to change anything on these rigs.
They Are Watching You
Finally, consider the monitoring system. Apparently, ESL logs every single click. Consequently, they can see what a player does during the break. If someone tries to run a hidden cheat, the computer will catch them. In other words, there is no way to hide your actions from the staff.
Even if a glitch appears in the game, like the recent wallhack bug we reported on, these locked PCs cannot be used to cheat.
Conclusion
Eventually, you know how these PCs work. After all, it is not just luck that the matches are fair. Indeed, ESL builds a fortress around every machine. In addition, they block the internet and lock the BIOS. Thus, the competition stays 100% honest for everyone.
