How to Change the Framework on Your Rust Server

Rust server frameworks control how your server runs and what features it supports. The most common options are Vanilla (the default Rust experience with no modifications) and Oxide, which adds a modding layer so you can install plugins and customize gameplay. Switching between these is straightforward from the RiverHosting panel using the built-in Framework page.

Before you start

• You need an active Rust server with RiverHosting. Log in at panel.riverhosting.com to get started.
• Changing the framework will restart your server. Let your players know before you make the switch.
• Your world and server data are not deleted when you change the framework, but it is a good idea to create a backup first just in case.
• If you currently have Oxide plugins installed and you switch to Vanilla, those plugins will no longer run until you switch back to Oxide.

1. How to change your Rust server framework

1. Log in to the RiverHosting panel and open your Rust server.
2. In the left-hand menu, click Framework.
3. You will see the available framework options. The most common choices are:
   • Vanilla: the standard Rust server with no modding layer. Best for a pure, unmodified experience.
   • Oxide: adds the Oxide modding framework so you can install plugins from the Plugins page. Best for modded or community servers.
4. Click the framework you want to use.
5. Confirm the change when prompted. The panel will apply the new framework and restart your server automatically.
6. Wait for the server to finish starting up. You can watch progress on the Console page.

2. How to install plugins after switching to Oxide

Once your server is running on Oxide, you can add plugins using the built-in Plugins page.

1. In the left-hand menu, click Plugins.
2. Browse or search for the plugin you want to install.
3. Click the install button next to the plugin.
4. Restart your server from the Console page or using the restart button so the plugin loads properly.

3. How to switch back to Vanilla

If you want to remove Oxide and run a clean Vanilla server, you can switch back at any time.

1. Open your Rust server in the RiverHosting panel.
2. Click Framework in the left-hand menu.
3. Select Vanilla.
4. Confirm the change. The panel will restart your server with the Vanilla framework.

Troubleshooting

• The server is not starting after a framework change. Open the Console page and look for error messages during startup. A failed Oxide installation or a corrupted plugin is a common cause. Try removing recently added plugins via the File Manager and restarting.
• Oxide is not loading. Check the Console for Oxide startup lines. If you do not see them, try switching the framework again from the Framework page. If the issue continues, contact support.
• Plugins are not working after switching to Oxide. Make sure you restarted the server after installing plugins. Some plugins also require configuration before they run correctly. Check the Console for any plugin-specific error messages.
• Players cannot connect after the framework change. Wait a minute or two for the server to finish starting. If it is still unreachable, check the Console for errors and verify the server status shows as online.
• I do not see the Framework page in my menu. Make sure you are on a Rust server. The Framework page is only available for Rust servers in the RiverHosting panel.

Need help?

If you run into any issues changing your Rust server framework or installing plugins, the RiverHosting support team is happy to help.