Trusted Mode in CS2 and the -allow_third_party_software option
What Trusted Mode is in CS2, why some recording tools and overlays may not work because of it, and whether to use the -allow_third_party_software launch option.
By default CS2 launches in Trusted Mode. In this mode the game blocks third-party programs that try to interfere with its process.
📌 What it does
Protects against programs that inject into the game: cheats, some overlays and "optimizers".
It is on for every player automatically — nothing to do.
🖥️ Why something stopped working
Some recording, streaming or overlay programs work by injecting into the game process. In Trusted Mode they may not see the game or show a black screen.
🔧 The -allow_third_party_software option
The launch option:
-allow_third_party_software
disables Trusted Mode and lets such programs work with the game.
⚠️ The risk
Valve warns that playing without Trusted Mode may lower your account's Trust Factor.
So only use this option if a program you really need does not work without it.
🎯 What to do instead
For recording, use Steam Game Recording or OBS in "Game Capture" / "Display Capture" mode — they usually work in Trusted Mode.
Update the program that does not work: developers often add CS2 support.