When is the Next Rust update?
The next RUST Update is scheduled for release on August 6th, 2026, at 2 PM EST / 7 PM BST.
Facepunch Studios, the developer behind RUST, releases an official game update on the first Thursday of every month. There is no exact release time announced in advance, as each update is managed individually based on development progress and final testing.
Both the RUST server update and client update are typically released close together, but their timing can vary. Because several factors can affect the release schedule, Facepunch does not commit to a specific time.
What to Expect on Update Day
On the day of the update, the server update is released first to bring all servers to the latest game version. This is followed by the release of the RUST client update and a blog post on the Official RUST Blog outlining the changes and additions.
Typical Release Window
While there is no official schedule, updates are generally released between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM UTC. This timing is based on historical trends and may vary. For the latest updates, visit the blog or follow Facepunch on Twitter for real-time announcements.
Required Updates and Client Mismatch Errors
All servers must install the monthly RUST update, including Official, Community, and Modded servers. Players must also install the corresponding client update to connect.
If your client is not updated and you attempt to join a RUST server that has already been updated, you will see a “Client Mismatch Error.” This error prevents you from connecting until your game is fully updated.
To update, open Steam and check your “Downloads” section. If the update does not appear, try restarting Steam or verifying your game files for integrity to force the update.
Emergency Patches and Unexpected Downtime
In rare cases, a newly released update may introduce critical issues. When this happens, Facepunch may issue an emergency patch or temporarily take down servers for maintenance. In dire situations, servers may need to be wiped to restore stability. These events are rare but can occur, especially when critical bugs are discovered shortly after release.
What Happens After an Update?
Once an update is released:
- Server administrators need to apply the update. This typically involves taking the server offline for 10-15 minutes, depending on the server’s configuration.
- Modded servers may require additional time to update plugins and other custom files.
- Players must install the client update before rejoining any updated server.
Many server owners use this time to perform a server wipe, even though it is not always required. Wipes reset performance by clearing accumulated entities and provide a fresh start for players. While some players enjoy the reset, others may find it frustrating to lose progress.
At Corrosion Hour, we do not wipe our blueprints with every RUST update. However, we do update to the latest stable version and update our map to a new seed. If you are unsure about your server’s wipe schedule, please check with the server administrators or visit their website for more information. Alternatively, you can also look for a public Discord channel to find up-to-date information.
When Do Forced Wipes Occur?
Forced wipes happen on the first Thursday of each month and coincide with the official game update. These wipes reset the world and database, which is necessary to maintain compatibility with the new game version. All servers must perform this reset.
How to Know When an Update is Released
Facepunch consistently communicates update information through its website and social channels. Here is the usual release pattern:
- A community blog post highlights upcoming features or changes.
- The server update is released first.
- The client update follows shortly after.
- A detailed developer blog is published once everything is live.
If your game has not yet been updated and you try to join a server that has, you will encounter a client mismatch error. This means the version of your game does not match the server’s version.
If your favorite server disappears from the server browser during this time, it is likely offline for maintenance or still updating. If the server appears but you cannot join, it may be due to a version mismatch on your end.
Troubleshooting Update Issues
If your RUST update is not appearing:
- Restart Steam and check for updates manually.
- Use the “Verify integrity of game files” option in Steam to ensure everything is in place.
- Make sure Steam’s automatic update settings are enabled.
On the administrative side, server logs will display connection errors, Steam IDs, and mismatch messages. On the player side, a clear error message will appear on screen if the versions do not match.
Why Does RUST Receive So Many Updates?
RUST is still in active development. Although it is a full release, the game continues to evolve with regular updates and new features. This process is driven by ongoing feedback from the community.
You can share your feedback in several ways:
- Use the in-game bug reporting tool
- Participate in discussions on the Steam RUST forums
- Join the conversation on the /r/playrust subreddit
- Join the official RUST Discord
These RUST updates keep the game fresh, address known bugs, and add new content that enhances the RUST experience for all players. Facepunch’s updates help keep things dynamic and provide us grubs with new experiences each month.
