What Is FACEIT and How Does It Work?

William Westerlund / January 24, 2026 / 5 min read

Tired of frustrating matchmaking and uneven competition? Looking to up your game and face off against skilled opponents? Then FACEIT might be exactly what you’re looking for.

It’s a competitive gaming platform that’s reshaping the esports experience. With advanced anti-cheat technology, skill-based matchmaking, and pathways to the pros, FACEIT is the battleground you and I need to push our gaming prowess to the next level!

The FACEIT Platform

FACEIT Main Website Hero Section

Think of FACEIT as a complete platform. Here, players unite to form teams, strategize, and climb ranks. Naturally, communication is key, and your progression is meticulously tracked, providing a clear view of your journey up the leaderboards.

And let’s not forget the social aspect. Ever met a player that grinds your gears? Or a player too painstakingly bad they come in your nightmares later?

FACEIT empowers you with the ability to block those unwanted interactions, ensuring your focus remains on the game.

What FACEIT Offers

There are three standout features that made me love FACEIT:

🎮
Smooth Performance

Glitch-free gameplay on FACEIT servers ensures a professional competitive experience.

🛡️
Robust Anti-Cheat

FACEIT’s system acts as a strong safeguard against cheating and foul play.

Skill Enhancement

Players can improve their skills and take steps toward professional-level gaming.

Enhanced Server Performance

FACEIT’s Super Match feature is a game-changer, handing you the reins to your matchmaking destiny.

This tailored gaming experience ensures that you’re pitted against opponents of equal calibre in FACEIT matches, thanks to a meticulous Elo rating system and an effective matchmaking system. The result?

A smoother, more competitive gaming experience that’s as satisfying as it is challenging, with more control.

Anti-Cheat Measures

FACEIT takes cheating very seriously and has built a robust system to maintain fair play. At its core is EAC (Easy Anti-Cheat), complemented by FACEIT’s proprietary anti-cheat software that monitors suspicious behavior and enforces bans.

Players are also regularly scanned for unauthorized programs, ensuring that matches remain competitive and skill-based.

Beyond detection, FACEIT actively updates its system to counter new hacks and exploits, providing a secure environment for both casual and professional players.

This commitment to integrity is one of the reasons FACEIT is favored by serious gamers seeking reliable, cheat-free matchmaking.

Opportunities for Skill Development and Professional Play

FACEIT Benefits visual

Becoming a gaming legend involves continuous learning and skill enhancement. Consider FACEIT as your mentor, leading you through structured competitions to hone your tactics and strategies.

From recording your games to understanding the nuances of resource management, every aspect of your play is refined, and it really shows!

Competitive Gaming

The platform’s steadfast dedication to authenticity and fair play. With Minerva, FACEIT’s advanced AI system, and a vigilant staff, the integrity of each match is safeguarded against toxicity and cheating.

FACEIT Ranks

Distinct from Valve’s official system, the FACEIT ranking system is unique in its kind, offering a more detailed representation of player skill levels. With Elo points that ebb and flow with each match’s outcome, it’s a system that challenges you to adapt and conquer.

But beware, the learning curve can be steep, and navigating through the ranks requires determination and grit.

Levels and Leagues

It’s a bit different from official in-game distributions like the CS2 Rank Distribution, but it’s certainly not an unwanted feature.

In fact, I personally prefer this format since the ELO disparity between each rank is much less, and battling players from one or two leagues higher doesn’t feel that unfair.

challenger.pngChallenger Top 1,000
10.pngLevel 10 2001 +
9.pngLevel 9 1751 – 2000
8.pngLevel 8 1531 – 1750 
7.pngLevel 7 1351 – 1530
6.pngLevel 6 1201 – 1350
5.pngLevel 5 1051 – 1200
4.pngLevel 4 901 – 1050
3.pngLevel 3 751 – 900
2.pngLevel 2 501 – 750
1.pngLevel 1 100 – 500

Getting Started with FACEIT

How to create account on FACEIT

If you’re ready for this exciting journey, the first step is straightforward. Establish your FACEIT account and connect it with your Steam account:

📝
Sign Up

Visit the FACEIT website and click ‘Sign Up’ to start the registration process.

📧
Enter Details

Fill in your email, username, and password to create your account.

Verify Email

Click the verification link sent to your inbox to confirm your email address.

🔗
Link Steam

Connect your FACEIT account to Steam via ‘Game Settings’ to participate in matches.

🎨
Customize Profile

Add a profile picture and personal details to personalize your FACEIT account.

With these keys in hand, you unlock the door to a universe of competitive gaming that’s waiting for you to make your mark.

Free vs. Premium Accounts

The choice between a free or premium FACEIT account hinges on your aspirations. While a free account offers a glimpse into this competitive world, it comes with limitations, such as server selection and restricted use of FACEIT points.

On the other hand, a premium account opens up a trove of advanced statistics, real prize opportunities, and access to the exalted leagues like the FPL.

Path to Pro: FPL and Beyond

The FACEIT Pro League (FPL) serves as a meeting ground for aspirants and inspirations, fostering and uncovering top-tier talent in the professional league.

Here, it’s really easy to forge connections, showcase your prowess, and even take home a slice of the hefty monthly prize pools.

It’s a path well-trodden by now-famous CS2 professionals like m0NESY and ropz, who used the FPL as a springboard to the apex of the esports world.

FACEIT vs. CS2 Premier

FeatureFACEITCS2 Premier
Platform TypeIndependent competitive platformBuilt-in CS2 matchmaking system
Skill-Based RankingRanks from Level 1 to Challenger, Elo-basedMatchmaking rank (Silver to Global Elite)
Matchmaking QualityMatches are generally more competitive, less randomMatch quality varies based on rank and region
Anti-CheatFACEIT Anti-Cheat (EAC + proprietary system)VAC system only
CustomizationServer settings, custom maps, private lobbiesStandard CS2 official maps and settings
Tournaments & LeaguesExtensive tournaments, ladders, eventsLimited to official CS2 events and Premier matches
Queue OptionsSolo, duo, or full team, flexible formatsTypically 5v5 standard queues
Community & Social FeaturesFriend invites, clans, and team managementBasic friends list and party system
CostFree with premium subscription optionsFree, included with CS2
FocusHardcore competitive play and skill developmentCasual competitive experience within CS2 ecosystem

Summary

With its state-of-the-art matchmaking, anti-cheat measures, and developmental opportunities, FACEIT stands as a beacon for gamers everywhere. It’s more than a place to play. It’s a community, a challenge, and for some, a career waiting to happen.

FAQs

What is FACEIT?

FACEIT is a competitive gaming platform where players can join leagues, tournaments, and ranked matches for games like CS2, offering a structured and skill-based environment.

How do I create a FACEIT account?

You sign up on the FACEIT website, verify your email, and link your account to Steam to participate in matches.

Does FACEIT have an anti-cheat system?

Yes, FACEIT uses a robust anti-cheat system to ensure fair play and prevent cheating during matches.

Can I play solo or with friends on FACEIT?

Both options are available. You can queue solo, duo, or in full teams depending on the game and competition format.

What is the FACEIT ranking system?

FACEIT ranks players from Level 1 to Challenger based on performance in competitive matches, with points earned for wins and match results affecting your progression.

author avatar
William Westerlund
William brings 7 years of experience writing for multiple gaming blogs. He has more than 10,000 hours played in CS:GO (CS2) and have played around in other games such as TF2 and Rust. Through his experience playing the game at a high level and dealing with skins for many years, he provides first-hand insight into the topics covered on the Tradeit.gg blog.

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