Setting up a Rust dedicated server requires a Windows or Linux machine (or VPS) with enough RAM, CPU power, and a stable internet connection. Here is the complete process.
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| CPU | 4 cores, 3.0 GHz | 6+ cores, 4.0 GHz |
| Storage | 20 GB SSD | 50 GB NVMe |
| OS | Windows 10 / Ubuntu 20.04+ | Ubuntu 22.04 / Windows Server |
| Network | 10 Mbps upload | 50+ Mbps upload |
| Ports | 28015 (game), 28016 (RCON) | Same |
Step 1: Install SteamCMD
Linux
sudo add-apt-repository multiverse
sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
sudo apt update
sudo apt install steamcmd
Windows
Download SteamCMD from Valve and extract to a folder.
Step 2: Download Rust Server
steamcmd +force_install_dir /home/rust/server +login anonymous +app_update 258550 validate +quit
Step 3: Create Start Script
Linux (start.sh)
#!/bin/bash
cd /home/rust/server
./RustDedicated -batchmode \
+server.port 28015 \
+server.level "Procedural Map" \
+server.seed 12345 \
+server.worldsize 4000 \
+server.maxplayers 100 \
+server.hostname "My Rust Server" \
+server.description "A Rust server" \
+server.identity "myserver" \
+rcon.port 28016 \
+rcon.password "changethis" \
+rcon.web 1
chmod +x start.sh
./start.sh
Step 4: Configure Ports
Open these ports in your firewall:
- 28015 UDP - Game traffic
- 28016 TCP - RCON (remote console)
- 28082 TCP - Rust+ companion (optional)
Step 5: Map and Seed
- server.seed, A number that generates a unique map. Try different seeds at playrust.io to preview.
- server.worldsize, Map size from 1000 (tiny) to 6000 (huge). Default is 4000.
- server.level, "Procedural Map" for random, or a custom map URL.
Wipe Schedule
Rust has a forced wipe on the first Thursday of each month. Many servers also do weekly or bi-weekly map wipes. Configure this manually by deleting the world save files and restarting.
Adding Plugins (Oxide/uMod or Carbon)
- Download Oxide/uMod or Carbon
- Extract to the server directory
- Restart the server
- Place plugin .cs files in the oxide/plugins/ folder
- Plugins auto-compile on server start
Hosting Options
| Option | Cost | Effort |
|---|---|---|
| Self-hosted VPS | 10-30 EUR/mo | High (full setup) |
| Managed hosting (Space-Node) | 10-20 EUR/mo | Low (panel-based) |
| Home server | Free + electricity | High + port forwarding |
Space-Node Rust plans start at 6.81 EUR/month with Ryzen 9 CPUs, NVMe storage, and DDoS protection.
FAQ
How much RAM does a Rust server need? Minimum 8 GB. Recommended 16 GB for modded servers with 50+ players.
Can I run a Rust server on a free VPS? Not reliably. Rust needs 8+ GB RAM and decent CPU.
What is RCON? Remote Console. Allows you to run server commands remotely.
Related: Rust map seeds guide, Rust wipe schedule, Rust server performance