Menu
  Log out
 

How to Join - Rust Wiki

Rust Guide • Updated Jan 8, 2026

Rust: Joining Dedicated Servers

Connecting to a **Rust** dedicated server opens up the full multiplayer experience, from small community servers to massive 200-player realms. Rust offers multiple connection methods, and this guide covers them all along with troubleshooting common issues.

1. Server Browser

The in-game server browser for discovering and joining public servers.

2. Direct Connection

Connect directly using IP address and port via console.

3. Steam Favorites

Save your favorite servers for quick access across sessions.

Method 1: Using the In-Game Server Browser

The most common way to find and join Rust servers:

  1. Launch Rust and wait for the main menu to load.
  2. Click Play Game.
  3. You'll see the server browser with filters.
  4. Use filters to find servers matching your preferences:
    • Max Group: Set to your preferred solo/duo/trio size
    • Modded/Vanilla: Filter by modded or vanilla servers
    • Region: Choose your region for low ping
    • Fresh Wipes: Search for recently wiped servers
  5. Double-click a server to connect, or right-click for more options.
  6. If the server requires a password, you'll be prompted to enter it.

Understanding Server Browser Columns

Column Meaning
Ping Your connection latency (lower is better, under 100ms is good)
Players Current players / Maximum players
Max Group Largest group size allowed on server
Modded Yes/No indicator for modded servers
Wipe Time since last server wipe

Method 2: Direct IP Connection

Connect directly to any server using its IP address and port:

Step 1: Enable Console

  1. Launch Rust.
  2. Press F1 to open the developer console.
  3. Type console.enable 1 and press Enter.

Step 2: Connect via IP

  1. Press F1 to open the console.
  2. Type the connection command:
connect IP:PORT

Example: connect 192.168.1.100:28015

  1. Press Enter to connect.
  2. If the server has a password, you'll be prompted to enter it.

Pro Tip: Save frequently used servers as console aliases using alias server1 "connect 192.168.1.100:28015" for quick access.

Method 3: Steam Favorites (Recommended)

For your own server or favorite community servers:

  1. In Steam, go to View -> Servers.
  2. Click the Favorites tab.
  3. Click Add a Server.
  4. Enter the server's **IP Address** and **Port**.
  5. The server will now appear in your Rust server browser under Favorites.

Understanding Rust Server Ports

Rust uses multiple ports for different functions:

Port Type Purpose
28015 UDP Main game port (connection port)
28016 UDP Query port (used by server browser)
28017 UDP RCON port (remote administration)

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Common Connection Errors

Error Message Cause Solution
"Connection Failed" Server is offline or firewall blocking Check if server is online, verify firewall allows port 28015
"Server Not Responding" Incorrect IP/port or server offline Verify IP:PORT combination, check server status
"Server Full" Player limit reached Wait for slot to open or contact admin to increase slots
"Invalid Password" Incorrect or no password provided Enter correct password or verify with server admin
"Version Mismatch" Server and client versions differ Update Rust to latest version or wait for server update
"Banned" Account is banned from server Contact server admin for ban appeal or join different server
"Whitelist Only" Server requires whitelist Contact admin to be added to whitelist

Connection Performance Tips

Optimizing Your Connection

  • Choose Nearby Servers: Look for servers with ping under 100ms
  • Close Background Apps: Disable downloads and streaming while playing
  • Use Ethernet: Wired connection is more stable than WiFi
  • Update Network Drivers: Keep network adapter drivers current
  • Disable Firewall Temporarily: Test with firewall off to rule out blocking

Server Types Explained

Vanilla Servers

Official game experience, no mods, standard progression. Best for authentic Rust experience.

Modded Servers

Enhanced gameplay with quality of life mods, custom plugins, and unique features.

Hardcore Servers

Increased difficulty, shorter crafting times, and faster decay for intense gameplay.

Training/Brown

New player-friendly servers with rules against raiding and PVP for learning mechanics.

Advanced Connection Methods

Auto-Connect on Launch

Automatically connect to your server when Rust launches:

  • Right-click Rust in Steam -> Properties
  • In Launch Options, add: +connect IP:PORT
  • Example: +connect 192.168.1.100:28015

Connecting to Passworded Servers

For password-protected servers:

client.connect IP:PORT "password"

Or enter password when prompted after connecting.

Network Configuration for Hosting

If you're hosting your own server:

Port Forwarding

Forward these ports on your router:

  • UDP 28015 (Main game port)
  • UDP 28016 (Query port)
  • UDP 28017 (RCON port)

Firewall Settings

  • Allow Rust.exe through Windows Firewall
  • Allow inbound/outbound UDP on ports 28015-28017
  • Temporarily disable firewall to test connectivity

Best Practices

  • Check Wipe Schedule: Join servers that have recently wiped for fresh starts
  • Review Server Rules: Read server rules before playing to avoid bans
  • Save Favorite Servers: Use Steam Favorites for servers you enjoy
  • Test Connection: Try connecting with console if browser fails
  • Network Stability: Ensure your internet is stable before joining

Ready to create your own survival world? Host your Rust server with Supercraft for optimized performance and full control over your Rust experience.

← Back to Rust Guides
Top