uMod (formerly Oxide) is the plugin framework that powers almost every modded Rust server. Installing plugins adds features like kits, teleports, shop systems, anti-cheat, and admin tools. Here is exactly how to install and manage uMod plugins in 2026.
Step 1: make sure uMod is installed
Your Rust server needs the Oxide/uMod framework installed before plugins work. Most managed Rust hosts, including Space-Node, offer one-click Oxide installation from the panel. If you run your own server, download the latest Oxide build from umod.org and extract it into your server directory.
After installation, start the server once. Oxide creates an oxide folder with subfolders for plugins, config, data, and logs.
Step 2: find plugins
Browse plugins on umod.org. Each plugin page shows:
- Description and features.
- Installation instructions.
- Compatible Rust version.
- Permissions and commands.
- Configuration options.
Popular plugins to start with: Kits, NTeleportation, ServerRewards, BetterChat, Vanish, CopyPaste, and GatherManager.
Step 3: upload the plugin
Download the .cs file from the plugin page. Upload it to your server's oxide/plugins folder using your control panel file manager or SFTP. The plugin compiles and loads automatically within seconds. No server restart needed.
Check the server console for a message like [PluginName] Loaded successfully. If you see errors, the plugin may need a dependency or a configuration fix.
Step 4: configure permissions
Most plugins use Oxide's built-in permission system. Grant permissions via the server console:
oxide.grant user PlayerName pluginname.permission
oxide.grant group default pluginname.permission
The default group applies to all players. Create custom groups for VIP or admin access:
oxide.group add vip
oxide.grant group vip kits.vipkit
Step 5: edit plugin config
After a plugin loads for the first time, it creates a config file in oxide/config/PluginName.json. Edit this file to customize behavior, then reload the plugin:
oxide.reload PluginName
Troubleshooting
- Plugin not loading: check the server console for compile errors. The plugin may need a newer Oxide version or a missing dependency.
- Permission denied: make sure the permission name matches exactly (case-sensitive).
- Plugin conflict: two plugins modifying the same game mechanic can clash. Disable one and test.
The short answer
Install Oxide on your Rust server, download .cs plugin files from umod.org, upload them to oxide/plugins, and manage permissions via console commands. No restart needed.
Space-Node Rust plans include one-click Oxide installation and full file access for plugins. See our Rust hosting plans.