A **Rust server** is one of the more demanding game servers to host. This guide covers memory, CPU, **wipes**, **Oxide/uMod** and **Carbon** plugins, and what to look for in a host.
How much RAM does a Rust server need?
Plan for 8 GB as a starting point for a small server, and 12-16 GB or more for a populated server with a larger map and plugins. Memory grows with map size, entities and players.
Why CPU speed matters
Rust's main server loop is largely single-threaded, so single-core speed decides how stable your server FPS is. A plan with fast cores and headroom beats the cheapest plan that merely fits the memory.
Map size, seed and entities
A bigger map means more entities and more memory. Pick the map size and seed in your startup settings, and keep the world as small as your population justifies.
Wipe day, step by step
- Take a backup of the current map and player data.
- Change the seed or size if you want a new map.
- Clear or archive plugin data that should reset.
- Restart and confirm the console reports the new world.
The official forced wipe usually lands on the first Thursday of the month, so plan your schedule around it.
Oxide/uMod and Carbon plugins
Oxide/uMod and Carbon are the common plugin frameworks for kits, teleports, economy and admin tools. Upload plugins and configs through the file manager, then reload them from the console. Add plugins gradually and remove ones you do not need.
RCON, DDoS protection and staff
Use the console or your usual RCON tool to manage players. Rust communities are frequent targets, so choose a host with always-on DDoS protection, and give admins sub-user access instead of your password.
Host it
See Rust server hosting for plans, RAM guidance and a FAQ, on Ryzen 9 CPUs with DDR5 and NVMe.
Rust punishes weak CPUs more than low RAM. Buy clock speed first, memory second.
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