Best Rust hosting 2025
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While working on this article, I teamed up with the Cybernews research team to test Rust hosting options and identify the issues that many players run into on public servers. It didn’t take long to spot them – cheaters ruining the fun, unexpected lag, lack of mod support, and servers crashing out of nowhere. These are the kinds of problems that can quickly kill the vibe of an otherwise great session. For a smooth start, I recommend the top Rust hosting provider, Hostinger.
To help address the issues, I looked into hosting providers that offer game server hosting and tested how well they support Rust. My goal was to find options that give players more control, better stability, and a smoother gameplay experience. Based on our tests, I picked the 6 best Rust server hosting services, focusing on ease of use, performance, and resource availability.
Best Rust server hosting for 2025
- Hostinger – best Rust server hosting
- Apex Hosting – top performance for Rust server hosting
- BisectHosting – powerful Rust server hosting for large groups
- ShockByte – affordable Rust server hosting for beginners
- ScalaCube – flexible Rust server hosting with global reach
- NameHero – budget Rust server hosting with solid uptime
Our in-house research team and expert writers work hand in hand to regularly test hosting services and provide accurate and fact-checked information. Discover the ins and outs of how we test and evaluate website hosting providers.
What are the minimum requirements for Rust server hosting?
There are no official requirements for hosting a Rust server, but these are the minimum Rust server hosting specs that I recommend:
- 4-6 CPU cores
- 8-16GB RAM
- 20GB storage or more
- 100Mbps stable internet connection
For the best experience, a Linux-based operating system is also recommended. If your server grows or you install mods, you may need even more resources.
Best Rust server hosting – detailed list:
To find the best hosting for Rust servers, we looked into hosting providers that offer gamer server hosting. Below, you’ll find my top 6 picks chosen for their excellent performance, ease of use, resources, and pricing.
1. Hostinger – best Rust server hosting overall
| Starting price: | From $4.99/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM: | Up to 32GB |
| CPU: | Up to 8 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Up to 32TB |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30 days |
Hostinger stands out as the best Rust server hosting provider on this list thanks to its balance of price, performance, and ease of use. It’s one of the only services offering a dedicated Rust instance in its Game Panel — meaning setup is quick and beginner-friendly.
Add in generous 32TB bandwidth, NVMe SSDs, and up to 8 vCPUs, and you get the kind of performance usually reserved for more expensive plans. With global servers, backups, and mod support, it’s a great fit for both small groups and growing communities.
Setting up Rust server hosting with Hostinger
Hostinger makes getting started surprisingly smooth – especially for beginners. Its custom Game Panel is one of the easiest tools I’ve used for managing a Rust server. After logging in, all it took was clicking Create Instance, selecting Rust from the dropdown, and confirming the setup. The server was up and running in just a few minutes.
As the Hostinger review shows, the control panel itself feels intuitive once you get the hang of it. I could quickly adjust settings like map type, player limits, and branding or enable modding support by toggling Umod. Thanks to the built-in file manager, installing plugins and mods was also simple.
What stood out to me was how smooth the setup felt overall. You don’t need to install the game files manually – Hostinger handles it. That’s a big plus if you want to skip the technical setup and jump right into customizing and playing.
2. Apex Hosting – fast Rust hosting with global server coverage
| Starting price: | From $10.49/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM: | Up to 32GB |
| CPU: | Up to 16 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 7 days |
Apex Hosting is a great pick if you want a Rust server that feels fast no matter where your players are joining from. With powerful hardware (up to 16 vCPUs) and data centers across the US, Europe, and Asia, it’s built to deliver smooth performance and low latency for global communities.
Setting up Rust server hosting with Apex Hosting
Getting started with Apex Hosting was surprisingly smooth. The control panel is clean and straightforward, making it easy to select Rust from the game list and spin up a new world. Everything – from customizing the map seed to tweaking the server name or description – can be done in just a few clicks, with no need to dig through config files manually.
If you want to go deeper, Apex gives you access to valuable features like uMod support, custom map uploads, and plugin installation. I found it very convenient that all plugins are handled through the same dashboard. And if you're planning to run a community server, adding admins or banning troublemakers is just as simple, thanks to a built-in console and precise permission controls.
3. BisectHosting – powerful Rust servers for high-performance needs
| Starting price: | From $23.92/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM | Up to 48GB |
| CPU: | Up to 16 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Unmetered |
| Money-back guarantee: | 3 days |
If you're planning to run a high-traffic Rust server packed with mods, plugins, or dozens of active players, BisectHosting is built for the job. With up to 48GB of RAM, 16-core CPUs, and unlimited NVMe storage, it offers the kind of power and stability larger communities rely on.
Setting up Rust server hosting with BisectHosting
BisectHosting makes it easy to get your Rust server live. After ordering, I got instant access to its Games Panel, where I could select the server location, slot count, and mod support in just a few steps.
The BisectHosting panel is a bit more technical than Hostinger’s beginner-friendly Game Panel, but it’s still clear and packed with features. Settings like world size, wipes, and autosaves are available, but navigating it requires a little more familiarity with hosting tools.
Modding support is a strong point with BisectHosting – uploading uMod or Carbon plugins, customizing configs, and switching maps felt smooth using the file manager. Console access is also available for quick commands and tweaks.
4. ShockByte – budget-friendly Rust hosting with dependable uptime
| Starting price: | From $14.99/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM: | Up to 16GB |
| CPU: | Up to 6 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 3 days |
If you’re looking to host a Rust server without breaking the bank, ShockByte is one of the most budget-friendly options out there. With plans starting at just $14.99/month and support for mods and custom maps, it’s a great choice for smaller or mid-sized Rust communities.
Setting up Rust server hosting with ShockByte
Getting started with ShockByte was surprisingly simple. After signing up, the server was automatically set up and ready to go – no need to mess with complicated installations or command lines. Everything is handled through their custom control panel, where you can tweak settings, upload custom maps, and manage your mods.
If you want to run a modded Rust server, ShockByte supports both Oxide and Carbon, which are two of the most popular modding frameworks. I tried both and found Oxide easier to manage at first, while Carbon gives a bit more flexibility once you get used to it. You can upload plugins, set up automatic wipes, and change server tags or descriptions directly from the dashboard.
That said, compared to providers like Hostinger, ShockByte’s panel feels a bit more stripped down. It covers all the basics – but lacks some of the slick UI and guided setup options you’d find with Hostinger’s Game Panel.
5. ScalaCube – solid Rust server hosting with decent global reach
| Starting price: | From $19.20/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM: | Up to 32GB |
| CPU: | Up to 8 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 7 days |
ScalaCube offers reliable Rust server hosting with all the basics covered – mod support, a beginner-friendly control panel, and servers in key regions like the US, Europe, and Asia. It’s a good mid-range pick for casual players or small communities.
Setting up Rust server hosting with ScalaCube
Getting started with ScalaCube was refreshingly simple. After purchasing a plan, my server was automatically set up and ready to go within a few minutes. The platform offers a pre-configured Rust setup, which means you don’t need to dig around for install options – just log into the control panel, and it’s all there.
The dashboard itself is clean and fairly intuitive. You can change your server name, switch maps, or enable mods like Oxide directly from the settings. There’s also built-in access to scheduled tasks and backups, so you can automate restarts or wipe cycles without much effort.
One thing to note: ScalaCube organizes its plans by player slots, not just resources. That makes it a bit less flexible than other providers on this list – you can’t easily switch to another game or change your plan without starting over.
6. NameHero – affordable Rust hosting with consistent performance
| Starting price: | From $6.40/month |
| DDoS protection: | ✅ Yes |
| RAM: | Up to 16GB |
| CPU: | Up to 4 cores |
| Bandwidth: | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30 days |
NameHero is a solid pick for small Rust communities or casual players looking to keep costs low. With up to 4 vCPUs, 16GB RAM, and NVMe SSD storage, it’s equipped for stable performance on lightly modded servers. Unlimited bandwidth, DDoS protection, and 99.9% uptime also help keep things running smoothly. While it lacks the higher specs and broader server locations of top-tier providers, it’s a reliable and affordable choice for simpler setups.
Setting up Rust server hosting with NameHero
Getting started with NameHero was quick and easy. After picking a plan, the server was set up automatically – no complicated steps or extra installs were needed. From there, I could log into the control panel to change settings, install mods, or switch the game mode.
NameHero also has a few helpful guides for things like connecting to your server or adding plugins. It’s not as advanced as Hostinger’s Game Panel, but the setup process is smooth and beginner-friendly for smaller Rust servers.
Best Rust server hosting testing methodology
At Cybernews, we have a transparent and thorough testing process to help you find the best Rust server hosting solutions. Check out our how we test web hosting guide for an in-depth dive into our testing process and methodology.
To identify the best Rust server hosting service, the Cybernews research team and I reviewed the best hosting providers. My initial priority was to determine if these hosts offer specific Rust server hosting plans to support the game. From this list, I selected 6 providers that met the criteria for further testing:
- Ease of use (35%). Hosting a Rust server can be technical, so I evaluated how beginner-friendly each provider is. This includes setup time, control panel usability, and overall server management experience.
- Performance (35%). Poor uptime and speed can significantly impact the Rust experience. To test the providers' reliability, I checked their uptime using a service called Pingdom. At the same time, I also evaluated the providers’ network infrastructure. This is essential as more server locations worldwide mean there’s a higher probability of finding one near the target player base for faster speeds.
- Resources (30%). The hosts’ plans must offer resources that meet the minimum requirements for Rust server hosting: 2 CPU cores at 3.4GHz, 4GB RAM, and 20GB storage. It’s even better if they offer beyond the bare minimum. For Rust server hosting, it’s recommended to have a 4-core or 6-core CPU at 3.4GHz or 3.6GHz, 8GB or 16GB RAM, and at least 32GB storage for optimal gameplay.
Once I established how well they did in resource allocation, pricing, ease of use, and performance, I ranked these providers from 1 to 6 to ensure that my recommendations help you find the best Rust server hosting solutions.
What is Rust server hosting?
Rust server hosting refers to running a dedicated server for Rust, allowing players to join and play in the same game world. You can host it yourself or use a provider, with the latter offering better performance, stability, and tools for managing the server.
How much does it cost to host a Rust server?
The cost of Rust server hosting typically ranges from $4.99/month to over $140.00/month, depending on the provider and the resources included.
If you’re hosting a small server for friends or light modding, budget-friendly options like Hostinger or NameHero start at around $4.99-7.00/month and offer enough performance for basic setups.
For larger servers or more demanding gameplay, providers like BisectHosting or Apex Hosting offer plans with higher RAM and CPU allocations. These can go up to $70.00-140.00/month, which is ideal for bigger communities, mod-heavy environments, or high player counts.
Some hosts – like ScalaCube – price their plans based on player slots, while others – such as Hostinger – focus on RAM, CPU, and storage. Most providers include essentials like DDoS protection, mod support, and global server locations. However, features such as control panels, backups, and support options can differ quite a bit, so it’s worth comparing before committing.
Where can I host a Rust server for free?
You can host a Rust server for free on your computer if it’s powerful. However, note that the game might hog resources (including CPU, RAM, storage, and bandwidth) and likely slow down your internet. Plus, you’re solely responsible for your server’s uptime and technical issues.
There are also free Rust server hosting providers available online. However, it's essential to carefully check what you're signing up for. Free plans can come with performance, support, or privacy policy limitations, so be sure to read the fine print.
If you’re looking for a more stable experience without a long-term commitment, consider trying premium hosting providers that offer free trials or money-back guarantees. This way, you can test the service before deciding.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Rust server hosting provider comes down to a few key things — performance, ease of setup, pricing, and how much control you need. Some providers offer more flexibility, while others focus on simplicity or value.
Hostinger was my top pick for Rust server hosting. It offers a good mix of speed, mod support, and easy setup, especially with its beginner-friendly Game Panel. It’s a strong option if you want something that’s quick to get running and just works.
Ultimately, the best Rust server hosting provider depends on your needs. Consider what matters most – whether it’s ease of use, advanced features, pricing, or refund options – and choose the best provider that fits your plans.
FAQ
How much RAM do I need to host a Rust server?
To host a Rust server, you need at least 4GB of RAM as the bare minimum. However, 8GB or 16GB of RAM is recommended for a significantly better gaming experience. Also, note that modded servers may require additional RAM.
Is Shockbyte a good Rust server host?
Yes, Shockbyte is a good Rust server host with solid features alongside unlimited storage and bandwidth. However, only its priciest plan, Metal, is suitable for modded servers. Even so, the plan’s 8GB RAM may not be enough for larger or resource-intensive modded servers, potentially leading to lag and crashes.
What is the best server location for hosting a Rust server?
The best server location for hosting a Rust server is the one closest to your player base. Choosing a nearby data center reduces latency and improves performance. Most top hosts offer locations in North America, Europe, and Asia, so pick the one that matches where most of your players are.
Can I install mods on my Rust server?
Yes, you can install mods on your Rust server. Providers like Hostinger support uMod (formerly Oxide), which allows you to add plugins and custom features. Hostinger also includes built-in tools to make mod installation quick and easy.
Do I need technical knowledge to manage a Rust server?
No, not necessarily. Some providers like Hostinger offer beginner-friendly control panels that simplify setup and management. However, if you plan to add custom mods or tweak advanced settings, having some basic technical know-how can be helpful.
Can I migrate my existing Rust server to a new hosting provider?
Yes, you can migrate your existing Rust server to a new hosting provider. Most hosts support this process and may even offer tools or guides to help. Just make sure to back up your server files, including worlds, configurations, and plugins, before starting the transfer.
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