How to connect to Call of Duty servers

Finding a Server on MantaScope

1. Go to the Call of Duty server list on MantaScope
2. Browse the list - you can see server name, current map, player count, and ping in real time
3. Use the filters at the top to narrow down by map, game mode, or player count
4. Click on any server to open its detail page with full info, player list, and rules

Connecting to a Server

On any server page, click the Connect button. This copies the connect command to your clipboard - something like /connect 85.114.141.71:28960.

Now paste it into the in-game console:

1. Launch Call of Duty and go to Multiplayer
2. Open the console by pressing ~ (tilde key - it's above Tab, left of 1)
3. Paste the connect command with Ctrl+V
4. Press Enter - you'll start connecting to the server

Password-Protected Servers

Some servers require a password to join. You'll see a lock icon on MantaScope for these servers.

To connect to a password-protected server:

1. Open the console with ~
2. Set the password first:

/password secretpass

1. Then connect as usual:

/connect 85.114.141.71:28960

The password is usually shared by the server community - check the server's website or Discord for it.

Useful Console Commands

Once you're comfortable with the console, these commands help:

• /disconnect - leave the current server
• /reconnect - rejoin the last server you were on
• /name YourName - change your player name
• /seta rate 25000 - optimize your network settings for smoother gameplay
• /seta cl_maxpackets 100 - increase packet rate for better hit registration

Game Modes

When browsing servers on MantaScope, the game mode column tells you what to expect:

• TDM (Team Deathmatch) - two teams, most kills wins. Best for beginners
• DM (Free-for-All) - every player for themselves
• S&D (Search & Destroy) - plant or defuse the bomb, no respawns per round
• CTF (Capture the Flag) - steal the enemy flag and bring it back to your base
• HQ (Headquarters) - capture and hold radio positions for points

Troubleshooting

"Server is not responding"

• Check the server's status on MantaScope - it might be offline or restarting
• Your firewall might be blocking the game. Add an exception for CoDMP.exe on UDP port 28960
• Try connecting to a different server to rule out your own connection

"CD Key in Use"

This means the master server hasn't released your key from a previous session. Wait 5–10 minutes and try again.

High Ping

• On MantaScope, sort servers by ping (click the ping column) and pick one close to you
• Close downloads, streams, or other bandwidth-heavy apps
• Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi
• Set network optimizations in console: /seta rate 25000

Tips for New Players

1. Start with TDM servers - the most forgiving mode for learning
2. Pick servers with 6–16 players to avoid chaos
3. Classic maps like mp_harbor, mp_carentan, and mp_dawnville are community favorites
4. Add good servers to your favorites on MantaScope so you can find them quickly next time