Our verdict: FACEIT is the main third-party matchmaking service for Counter-Strike 2, and its client is required to play there because it includes the anti-cheat. Standard matches are free. The price is a kernel-mode driver and strict PC security requirements: TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot must be on.
About FACEIT
FACEIT is a competitive gaming platform owned by ESL FACEIT Group. You queue for matchmaking alone or with friends, get matched with players of similar skill, and gain or lose Elo, which sets your FACEIT level from 1 to 10. The platform also runs tournaments, hubs, clubs and leagues, and you can earn FACEIT points through ladders and missions.
The Windows client contains FACEIT Anti-Cheat, which must run during protected Counter-Strike 2 matches. It consists of an app, a kernel-mode driver loaded when the PC boots, and a server-side check. FACEIT says the anti-cheat only collects data while Counter-Strike is running, and the driver can be disabled from the tray icon until the next restart. Standard matches are free; Plus and Premium subscriptions add extra match types and perks.
What it does well
- CS2 matchmaking. Skill-based 5v5 matches with Elo and levels 1 to 10.
- FACEIT Anti-Cheat. Kernel-level anti-cheat required by most players in the queue.
- Tournaments and hubs. Daily and weekly tournaments, community hubs, clubs and leagues.
- Account verification. Verified players are more likely to be matched with other verified players.
- Missions and rewards. FACEIT points from ladders and missions, exchangeable for rewards.
Who it is for
Good fit
Counter-Strike 2 players who want more balanced matches with fewer cheaters than in-game matchmaking.
Look elsewhere
Players who do not want a kernel-mode driver on their PC, or PCs without TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free standard matchmaking
- Strong anti-cheat in every protected match
- Clear Elo and level system
- Tournaments and hubs on the same platform
Cons
- Kernel-mode driver that loads at boot
- Requires TPM 2.0, Secure Boot and UEFI
- Some match types are for paying subscribers only
How to install FACEIT
Before installing, check that BIOS Mode is UEFI and Secure Boot is On (msinfo32) and that TPM 2.0 is ready (tpm.msc); FACEIT requires both. FACEIT says Windows 10 needs version 22H2 with Extended Security Updates, and Windows 11 becomes mandatory in October 2027. Restart the PC after installation so the anti-cheat driver loads.
Questions about FACEIT
Is FACEIT free?
Yes. The client and standard matchmaking are free. Optional Plus and Premium subscriptions add features such as Super Match and Premium Match access.
Why does FACEIT need TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot?
FACEIT Anti-Cheat checks a TPM-signed report of the boot process to make sure no unauthorized drivers or firmware were loaded, which blocks many kernel-level cheats.
Can I turn off the FACEIT anti-cheat?
Yes. Right-click the tray icon and choose to disable the driver. Restart the PC to enable it again before playing on FACEIT.
