Built a savage world in Rust but can't get your crew in? Connecting to a custom Rust server (like one you host on Lunar Racks) is straightforward via the in-game console or server browser. This works for vanilla or modded servers — just grab the IP:port from your orbit panel and hop in. No Steam friends list needed!
This guide is for new players/admins — simple steps, no tech overload. (If your server's not starting, check my other hosting guides!)
Why Connect to a Custom Rust Server?
- Private fun: Play with friends only - no random griefers.
- Mods & tweaks: Custom maps, plugins (e.g. Oxide), or rules.
- Control: Host your own low ping server with custom wipes.
- Community: Join clans or test builds!
Prep: Ensure server is online (check panel console for "Server started"). For modded, install matching mods via Rust's mod manager or Steam Workshop.
Step 1: Find Your Server's IP and Port
- Log into MyRack (https://my.lunarracks.com) or to your Orbit Command (https://orbit.lunarracks.com).
- Select your Rust server.
- On the dashboard, copy the IP:PORT (e.g., 123.45.67.89:28015).
Tip: Share this with friends — that's their ticket in!
Step 2: Launch Rust & Connect via Console (Fastest Way)
- Open Rust via Steam (update if needed).
- In main menu, press F1 to open the console (black box).
- Type:
client.connect IP:PORT(e.g.,client.connect 123.45.67.89:28015). - Hit Enter — it connects directly!
Modded Note: If Oxide/mods, ensure client has them (subscribe in Steam Workshop > restart Rust).
Step 2 (Alt): Use the Server Browser
- In Rust, go to Play > Community tab.
- Search by server name (if set in your Orbit Command) or filter by map/players.
- Double-click to join (may not show private servers — use console).
Pro Tip: For wipes, connect early post-wipe to snag spots (servers fill fast!).
What If You Can't Connect? (Top Fixes)
| Error/Message | Fix |
| "Disconnected" / Timeout | Server offline? Start it in your Orbit Command. Wrong IP:Port? Double-check or copy-paste. |
| "Invalid version" | Update Rust to match the server (Orbit Command > Startup tab > Version). |
| Mods mismatch | Install required mods (Check server description or panel plugins) You may have to restart Rust. |
| Full server | Increase the slots in your panel or wait for a spot to open up. |
| Banned/Kicked | Check console logs in your Orbit Command for reasons (e.g. cheating). |
Tip: Connect yourself first, then invite others.
Bonus: Custom Server Tips
- Password protect: In your orbit command, edige server.cfg > Add "server.password YOURPASS" > Restart
- Direct connect link: Share steam://connect/IP:PORT for one-click joining!
- Auto-backup: Setup automatic backups in our Orbit Command to save progress.
Quick Recap (Cheat Sheet)
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Orbit Panel -> Copy IP:PORT |
| 2 | Rust -> F1 Console -> client.connect IP:PORT -> Enter |
| 3 | Stuck? Check the advise above! |
Need Help?
- Console error? Screenshot it and send it to us!
- Take a screenshot and open a ticket: https://my.lunarracks.com/submitticket.php
- Take a screenshot and open our live chat
Connected!
Gather resources, build bases - survive the Rust world.
