How to Configure and Connect to Rust RCON

Overview

Remote Console (RCON) allows administrators to monitor chat, kick or ban players, give items, execute console commands, and observe server performance without having to log into the game client.

Rust uses a modern WebSocket-based protocol known as WebRCON (+rcon.web 1), replacing legacy Source RCON.

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RCON Configuration Parameters

RCON settings are defined in the Startup tab of DustBowl Warden:

+rcon.port {{RCON_PORT}}
+rcon.password "{{RCON_PASSWORD}}"
+rcon.web 1

• RCON Port: A dedicated TCP port allocated in your server's Network tab.
• RCON Password: A strong alphanumeric password protecting the console socket. Never use your personal account password.
• RCON Web: Must be set to 1 (true) to enable the WebSocket protocol used by all modern desktop and web administration tools.

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Connecting with RustAdmin Desktop

RustAdmin is the most widely used free desktop administration tool for Rust server managers.

1. Download and install RustAdmin from the official site.
2. Launch RustAdmin and navigate to Configuration -> Server.
3. Fill in the connection credentials:
   • Configuration Name: DustBowl Production
   • IP: Your server's public IP address.
   • Port: Your allocated RCON Port (do NOT enter your Game Port).
   • Password: Your configured RCON password.
   • RCON Type: Select WebRCON.
4. Click Save, then click Server -> Connect.
5. Once connected, the console feed, player list, chat log, and bans will populate in real time.

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Connecting with BattleMetrics RCON

BattleMetrics provides cloud-hosted RCON and telemetry logging:

1. Log into your BattleMetrics account.
2. Navigate to RCON -> Servers -> Add Server.
3. Select Rust.
4. Enter your public IP, allocated RCON port, and RCON password.
5. BattleMetrics will establish a persistent socket to record player statistics, combat logs, and chat moderation triggers.

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Security Best Practices

1. Firewall Access: Never share your RCON password with junior moderators. Use Oxide permission plugins or Discord bots to delegate specific commands instead.
2. Rotate Passwords Periodically: If a staff member leaves your team, immediately change the RCON password in the Warden Startup tab and restart the container.

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Next Steps

• Fine-tune simulation performance in Rust Server Performance, Tick Rate, and Lag Optimization.
• Safeguard world state in How to Backup and Restore a Rust Dedicated Server.