Go BackHow I Fixed CS2 Crashing: A Comprehensive Guide
By Gabriele Asaro
2 min read
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How I Fixed CS2 Crashing: A Comprehensive Guide

Many gamers are struggling with CS2 crashing, and I've been there too. After extensive troubleshooting, I've compiled a list of fixes that solved the CS2 crashing issue for me and others. Here's what worked:

Adjust NVIDIA settings:

  1. Open NVIDIA Control Panel
  2. Manage 3D settings > Program Settings
  3. Add CS2
  4. Set Power management mode to "Prefer maximum performance"
  5. Enable Triple Buffering
  6. Test with V-Sync on and off (for a smoother gameplay, I recommend it to turn it off)

Use Vulkan:

  1. Add "-vulkan" to CS2 launch options
  2. Verify game files again
  3. Restart your PC

Windows graphics settings:

  1. Set CS2.exe as high performance in Windows settings
  2. Disable fullscreen optimizations for CS2.exe

Disable NVIDIA Ansel:

  1. Run PowerShell as admin
  2. Use provided commands to disable Ansel
    1. dir "$env:systemroot\system32\driverstore\filerepository\*NvCameraEnable.exe" -rec |% {& "$_" off}
    2. dir "$env:programfiles\nvidia corporation\*NvCameraEnable.exe" -rec |% {& "$_" off}

Disable Windows Game DVR:

  1. Open Windows Settings > Gaming
  2. Turn off Game DVR

Launch options:

  1. Use only "-dx11" in launch options
  2. Try "-shaders_force_recompile" once, then remove it

If the above fixes didn't work, try the following fixes.

Update Windows:

  1. Open Windows Settings
  2. Go to Update & Security
  3. Click "Check for updates"
  4. Install all available updates

Update graphics drivers:

  1. Visit your GPU manufacturer's website
  2. Download the latest driver
  3. Install and restart your PC

Update BIOS:

  1. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website
  2. Download the latest BIOS version
  3. Follow their instructions carefully to update

Verify CS2 files:

  1. Open Steam
  2. Right-click CS2
  3. Properties > Local Files > Verify integrity of game files

Reinstall CS2:

  1. Uninstall CS2 from Steam
  2. Delete remaining files in the Steam directory
  3. Reinstall the game

Reinstall Steam:

  1. Uninstall Steam
  2. Delete the Steam folder
  3. Download and install Steam again

Verify Windows install files:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator
  2. Run "sfc /scannow"
  3. If issues found, run "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth"

By following these steps, you should be able to fix most of the CS2 crashing issues. Remember to test the game after each fix to identify what works for you.

Gabriele AsaroAbout the author

Gabriele Asaro
Gabriele Asaro

I'm the Head of Research at Clash.gg. With over 7 years of experience in the Counter-Strike niche, I have developed extensive knowledge of the game, its strategies, and the competitive scene. My insights are based on years of in-depth analysis and close involvement with the Counter-Strike community.