# Pure mode: sv_pureLevel 1 and 2

> What sv_pureLevel does on a FiveM server: level 1 and level 2 compared, what players see, what it cannot stop, and how to pick a level for RP or PvP.

Source: https://fam-tools.com/guides/fivem-sv-pure-level · FAM Tools · published 2026-09-11 · updated 2026-09-11 · about 7 min

**Short answer.** `sv_pureLevel 1` blocks modified client files except audio files and known graphics mods; `sv_pureLevel 2` blocks all modified client files. Players with modified base game files get an error naming the file. Files placed in FiveM’s own folder are ignored rather than blocked. Pure mode does not stop cheat menus — it is about game file edits.

## Key points

- Level 1: blocks modified files, allows audio and known graphics mods.
- Level 2: blocks all modified client files.
- Players see which file is modified.
- Not an anticheat for injected menus.
- Tell players before enabling it.

Some players edit their GTA V files — lighter smoke, removed trees, see-through bushes. On a PvP or competitive server that is an unfair advantage. Pure mode lets the server refuse players whose game files are modified, with two strictness levels.

## The levels

*From Cfx.re’s server command documentation.*

| Setting | Effect | Good for |
| --- | --- | --- |
| (not set) | No file checks | Casual servers |
| `sv_pureLevel 1` | Blocks modified files except audio and known graphics mods | Most roleplay servers |
| `sv_pureLevel 2` | Blocks all modified client files | Competitive PvP, redzones |

*server.cfg*

```cfg
sv_pureLevel 1
```

## What players experience

A player with modified base game files receives an error message telling them which file is modified, and must restore it (for example by verifying game files in their launcher) before joining. Mods placed in the FiveM application folder are ignored rather than blocking the connection.

## What pure mode does not do

- It does not detect injected cheat menus — use server-side protection; see [anticheat basics](https://pityus.net/guides/fivem-anticheat-basics).
- It does not affect what your server streams — your own assets still load.
- Level 1 intentionally allows audio mods such as gunshot sound packs.

## Choosing a level

Level 1 is a good default for roleplay: it stops visual advantages while letting players keep sound packs and common graphics tweaks. Use level 2 when every visual edge matters. Announce it in Discord and on your loading screen so players are not surprised at the connect screen.

## Questions

### What does sv_pureLevel do?

It refuses players whose GTA V client files are modified: level 1 allows audio and known graphics mods, level 2 blocks all modified files.

### Does sv_pureLevel block cheats?

No. It checks game files, not injected cheat menus.

### Can players keep gun sound mods with pure mode?

With level 1, yes — audio files are allowed. Level 2 blocks them.

### How do players fix a pure mode error?

Restore the modified file named in the error, for example by verifying game files.

## Related

- https://fam-tools.com/guides/fivem-ban-system
- https://fam-tools.com/guides/fivem-server-cfg
- https://fam-tools.com/guides/fivem-ace-permissions
- https://fam-tools.com/guides/fivem-server-console-commands