Fix Counter-Strike 1.6 Empty Server List ( MasterServer Fix)

How to fix empty server browser in Counter-Strike 1.6

This FIX guide focuses on solving the Counter-Strike 1.6 server browser not working issue by reconfiguring your connection to the global MasterServer network. Whether you are using the original Steam version or a custom build, these steps will help you populate your “Internet” tab with hundreds of active servers.

When the game fails to load the list, it is usually because the built-in MasterServer IP addresses are no longer active. To fix this, we must manually direct the game engine to valid, high-traffic master servers. This is the most effective way to restore your CS 1.6 server list functionality on modern systems.

Solutions for Steam players

Steam users rarely face this issue, but configuration corruption can occur. Following these steps will refresh your connection to the global lobby:

1. Verify Game Files: Right-click Counter-Strike in your Steam Library > Properties > Installed Files > Verify integrity of game files. This replaces any missing or damaged core components.
2. Adjust Connection Settings: Navigate to Steam Settings > In-Game. Locate Server Browser pings per minute and reduce the value to 500. This prevents your network from dropping packets during the server refresh process.
3. Clear Filter Settings: Open the server browser in-game, select the Filters tab, and click Reset. A hidden “Max Ping” or “Map” filter is often the reason for an empty list.

Manual fix for Non-Steam versions

Non-Steam clients frequently rely on hardcoded master server lists that expire. Replacing these manually is the most effective CS 1.6 server list fix.

The MasterServers.vdf Method

This file tells the GoldSrc engine where to look for online games. Correcting it is the primary method to fix an empty server browser.

1. Go to your game installation directory and enter the platform\config folder.
2. Find the file named MasterServers.vdf.
3. Right-click it, select Properties, and ensure the Read-only attribute is turned off.
4. Open the file with any text editor (like Notepad) and paste the following updated list:

Updated MasterServer List (2025/2026):

"MasterServers"
{
	"hl1"
	{
		"0"
		{
			"addr"		"188.40.40.201:27011"
		}
		"1"
		{
			"addr"		"ms.procs.lt:27010"
		}
		"2"
		{
			"addr"		"ms.csdownload.net:27010"
		}
		"3"
		{
			"addr"		"ms.csdownload.net:27011"
		}
		"4"
		{
			"addr"		"46.165.154.166:27011"
		}
		"5"
		{
			"addr"		"46.4.71.67:27011"
		}
		"6"
		{
			"addr"		"176.9.54.167:27011"
		}
	}
}

6. Important: After saving the changes, right-click MasterServers.vdf again, go to Properties, and check Read-only. This prevents the game from resetting your custom list to the old, broken defaults.

Updating rev.ini (Emulator Configuration)

If your version uses the Revolution Emulator, you must update the master server entries there as well:

1. Locate rev.ini in your main game folder.
2. Search for the MasterServer variable.
3. Replace or add these active entries to ensure your CS 1.6 internet tab works correctly:
   • MasterServer = 188.40.40.201:27011
   • MasterServer = ms.procs.lt:27010
   • MasterServer = ms.csdownload.net:27011

Quick Fix Checklist

By following these technical steps, you will ensure that your game connects to a working MasterServer network, providing a fresh and populated list of servers every time you play.