If Rust crashes while joining a server, it is usually caused by a bad cached map file or another client-side loading issue.
Start by closing Rust completely and clearing your Rust map cache.
- Close Rust completely.
- Open your Rust install folder through Steam.
- Go to the maps folder.
- Delete the files inside the maps folder.
- Restart Rust and try joining the server again.
You can usually find the folder here:
Steam\steamapps\common\Rust\maps
After clearing the folder, Rust will download a fresh copy of the map the next time you connect.
If you are receiving a specific error instead of a normal crash, these articles may help:
If Rust continues crashing after clearing your map folder, verify your Rust game files through Steam and try again.
If the issue still continues, please create a help ticket and include the server you are trying to join, what happens when Rust crashes, and your Rust client log file. You can find instructions here: How do I find my Rust client log file?
