> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Rust Server Not Showing in the Server List? How to Fix It

> Rust server not showing in the server list? Wait for Server startup complete, search the exact name on the right tab, check tags, or join with client.connect.

A FREAKHOSTING Rust server only appears in the in-game server list after it has finished starting: wait for `Server startup complete` and `SteamServer Connected` in the console (the first start takes about 5 to 6 minutes). Then search for its exact **Server name** on the **Community** tab, or **Modded** if you run Oxide or Carbon. To join straight away, press **F1** and type `client.connect 203.0.113.10:28015` with your own address.

| Fact | Value |
| - | - |
| Game port | 28015 (join here) |
| Query port | 28017 (used by the server list) |
| Ready lines | `Server startup complete`, `SteamServer Connected` |
| Direct join | `client.connect <IP>:<game port>` in the **F1** console |

## How to join without the server list

Press **F1** in Rust to open the console and type:

```text theme={null}
client.connect 203.0.113.10:28015
```

Use the IP and game port shown in the panel. This works even while the server list hasn't picked up your server yet.

## Why can't I find my Rust server in the list?

**1. Wait until it has started**

In the [Console](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-use-the-server-console.md), wait for `Server startup complete` and `SteamServer Connected`. While the map is being generated, the server is not listed.

**2. Search the right tab**

Vanilla servers you host appear under **Community**. Servers running Oxide or Carbon usually appear under **Modded**.

**3. Search the exact name**

Search for the **Server name** from **Server settings**. If you changed it, restart: the new name only shows after the next start.

**4. Clear filters**

Reset the browser filters in the game (region, player count, wipe and tags). Check your **Server tags** in **Server settings** too: a server with two tags from the same group, such as two wipe tags, may not show in tag searches.

**5. Give it a few minutes**

The list can take a few minutes to show a freshly started server. Refresh it.

## Check that the server started correctly

| Console shows | What it means |
| - | - |
| `Generating procedural map of size ...` | The map is being built. Wait. |
| `Server startup complete` | The game is ready. |
| `SteamServer Connected` | The server is linked to Steam and can be listed. |
| `Waiting for RCON to come up...` (over and over) | The default RCON password is still set. See [console not working](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/rust-console-not-working-waiting-for-rcon.md). |

The **Query Port** (28017) in **Startup** is what the server list uses. Don't change it unless you have a second port assigned to your server.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do I join my Rust server by IP?

Press **F1** and type `client.connect` with your address and game port, for example `client.connect 203.0.113.10:28015`.

### My friends see the server but I don't. Why?

Your filters in the server browser are hiding it. Reset them, or join with `client.connect`.

### Can I hide my Rust server from the list?

Facepunch documents a hidden, whitelisted setup on its [Creating a hidden, whitelisted server](https://wiki.facepunch.com/rust/Creating_a_hidden_whitelisted_server) page. It needs changes beyond the panel's settings; [open a ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php) if you need help.

### Players see "Steam Auth Timeout" when they join. Is that the list?

No, that is a Steam login problem. See [Steam auth errors](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/resolving-steam-auth-timeout-errors-in-rust.md).

## Related guides

> [card] [Rust server guide](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/rust-server-hosting-guide.md)
>
> Every Rust page in one place.

> [card] [Steam auth errors](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/resolving-steam-auth-timeout-errors-in-rust.md)
>
> Steam Auth Failed and Timeout.

> [card] [Description and header image](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/configuring-server-description-and-header-image.md)
>
> Name, tags and banner.

> [card] [Getting started](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/rust/getting-started-with-your-rust-server.md)
>
> First steps on a new server.

***

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team** on our Game Panel on 31 October 2026 (Rust dedicated server, procedural map 3000). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

> [!NOTE]
>
> ### Need Extra Help?
>
> If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:
>
> * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
> * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
> * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
> * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)

> [!TIP]
>
> ### Save on Your Hosting
>
> Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first order!

***

**Last Updated:** October 2026


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