Ok I’m having a little dilemma here. I’ve finally figured out how to create my own campaigns, but in order to run them I need to enable auto-downloading on the server so the clients can get the custom pk3 campaign file. The problem is that if the client also needs any of the custom maps, they will download those as well. Is there any way to create custom campaigns and not turn on auto downloads? I don’t mind the clients auto downloading the pk3 campaign files, but the custom map downloads really suck the bandwidth. Does the client always need to download the campaign pk3 file?
Custom Campaigns and Auto download
Rippin_Kitten
(Rippin Kitten)
#2
On a “pure” server, the client needs every pk3 file that’s sitting on the server, even if the map in question isn’t being currently played or even on the rotation. If you are running a custom map, expect some drain as clients try to get it so they can join your server.
You would have to take custom maps off the server to keep people from eating up bandwidth downloading them. This is a disadvantage to using custom maps on smaller servers, especially when they’re still “new.” Give them a little time to spread around and later you might not take such a big hit.
Using the http redirect feature can help pass off this drain onto another server on a different connection. This can help keep your server running smoothly as clients get the necessary files from another location. If you use a website for your server, this is something you should seriously look into.
Disabling the pure option will allow clients to join who don’t have the necessary pk3 files. If a custom map comes up and they don’t have it they’ll disconnect with an error message. It also opens up the possibility of people using custom skins and models, which could be a headache. So while this is an option you might not want to go down this route.
If you can’t set up the redirect and you still want to run custom maps, you may be forced to disable downloads on the server and make your clients get the necessary files first. This can seriously hurt your traffic and might not be advisible unless you already have an established player base.
RK