Plugins

A Comprehensive Guide to Rust Plugins

In the world of Rust, plugins are a game-changer. They enable server owners to tailor gameplay, enhance server features, and introduce customizations to make their server stand out. This guide will provide an in-depth look into Rust plugins, from understanding what they are to learning how to implement them effectively.

What are Rust Plugins?

Rust plugins are extensions to the core game. They can modify gameplay, introduce new mechanics, enhance administrative tools, or even just add aesthetic touches to the server. Built primarily using the C# language, these plugins work in tandem with modding frameworks, such as Oxide (uMod), to integrate seamlessly with the game.

Key Benefits of Rust Plugins:

1. Customized Gameplay: Add new features or modify existing mechanics to craft a unique experience for players.
2. Administration: Streamline server management with tools that combat cheating, offer player insights, or automate tasks.
3. Enhanced Immersion: Introduce new in-game content, from items to events, enriching the Rust world.

Installing Rust Plugins:

Note: The following process assumes you have Oxide (uMod) installed on your Rust server.

1. Download the Plugin: Many platforms offer Rust plugins, with the uMod website being the most popular. Ensure that you download plugins from trusted sources to avoid security issues.
2. Access Server Files: Navigate to your Rust server directory.
3. Locate the Plugin Folder: Within your server directory, find the oxide/plugins folder.
4. Add the Plugin: Place the downloaded .cs (C#) plugin file into the oxide/plugins folder.
5. Restart the Server: For the plugin to activate, you'll need to restart your Rust server.

Configuring Plugins:

Most Rust plugins come with configuration files that let you tweak their settings:

1. Locate the Configuration: After the first run of a plugin, it typically generates a configuration file in the oxide/config directory. This file will have a .json extension.
2. Edit Configuration: Open the .json file with a text editor. Here, you can tweak various settings per the plugin's documentation. Always ensure you're following the correct format to prevent errors.
3. Save and Restart: After making your desired changes, save the file and restart your Rust server.

Best Practices for Using Rust Plugins:

1. Compatibility Checks: Before installing multiple plugins, ensure they are compatible with each other to prevent server issues or crashes.
2. Regular Updates: Plugin developers often release updates to patch issues or add features. Regularly check for updates to keep your server running smoothly.
3. Backup Regularly: Before adding new plugins or making significant changes, backup your server. This ensures you can quickly revert if problems arise.
4. Read Documentation: Most plugins come with documentation detailing their features and configurations. Spend time understanding this to get the most out of the plugin.
5. Monitor Server Performance: Some plugins, especially when many are used simultaneously, can affect server performance. Monitor your server's CPU and memory usage and be prepared to tweak or remove plugins as necessary.

The Impact of Using Mods on Rust Server Browser Classification

Rust offers players a server browser to choose the kind of gameplay experience they desire. At its core, this browser divides servers into two main categories: "Community" and "Modded." The integration of plugins and mods has a direct influence on how a server is categorized, which can significantly impact its visibility and, subsequently, its popularity among players.

Community vs. Modded: What's the Difference?

1. Community Servers: These are vanilla servers that run the base game without any major modifications. While they might have certain settings tweaked, like gather rates or day/night cycles, they don't incorporate gameplay-altering plugins.
2. Modded Servers: As the name implies, these servers have implemented one or more plugins that modify the game's mechanics, add new features, or change the core gameplay in some manner.

Why Does It Matter?

1. Player Preference: Some players prefer the untouched, raw experience of Rust and will generally flock to Community servers. Others might be looking for a fresh take on the game, seeking out Modded servers to find new challenges or functionalities.
2. Visibility: When players use the server browser, they'll typically see servers from one category at a time. If your server is in the "Modded" section but offers a nearly vanilla experience, players looking for that might miss out on joining your server.

Toggle Server Category Using Oxide:

If you've integrated Oxide (uMod) into your Rust server, it will default your server listing to the "Modded" section, even if you haven't activated any plugins. Fortunately, you can choose how you want your server to appear in the server browser by tweaking the Oxide configuration file.

Here's how to toggle your server's appearance:

1. Access Oxide Configuration: Navigate to your server's directory and locate the oxide folder. Inside, you should find the config directory which houses the oxide.cfg file.
2. Editing the Configuration: Open the oxide.cfg file in a text editor. Here, you'll be looking for a line that reads: server.modded: "true"
3. Toggling Between Categories:
   • For your server to appear in the Modded section, ensure the line reads server.modded: "true"
   • For your server to appear in the Community section, change it to server.modded: "false"
4. Save and Restart: Once you've made the desired change, save the file and restart your Rust server for the change to take effect.