cpu usage seems like the expected.
When you say "tickrate down to 60", is it because server fps goes to 60?
If not, perhaps you set the rates to low. Try setting it to a high value like sv_minrate 1048576 and sv_maxrate 1048576 and see what happens.
When having so many players it also requires more bandwidth.
So I'd recommend setting minrate to at least 40000.
rate of 25000 is way to low.
When you say "tickrate down to 60", is it because server fps goes to 60?
If not, perhaps you set the rates to low. Try setting it to a high value like sv_minrate 1048576 and sv_maxrate 1048576 and see what happens.
When having so many players it also requires more bandwidth.
So I'd recommend setting minrate to at least 40000.
rate of 25000 is way to low.
"the box said 'requires windows xp or better'. so i installed linux"
Linux Ubuntu 9.04 Server 2.6.30-vanilla #1 SMP PREEMPT x86_64
Linux Ubuntu 9.04 Server 2.6.30-vanilla #1 SMP PREEMPT x86_64