Rust "client update required" error: Possible fixes and reasons

The Rust "client update required" error is an issue that surfaces when one's game client is either not updated or the version in use is not in sync with the latest iteration of the title. You can squeeze into in-game servers despite having a backdate client. However, for the most part, you will be met with this error whenever you try loading the assets for a community, official, or modded server.

This article provides you with a list of solutions that could possibly help bypass the Rust "client update required" error with absolute ease.

Note: It must be noted that the fixes described in this article are not guaranteed to work. They are workarounds that you may implement in hopes of bypassing the ongoing error. If the error still persists despite your attempts at fixing them, we urge you to contact customer support at Facepunch Studios to help you navigate through this problem.

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Possible reasons for Rust "client update required" error

As stated above, the most common reason for the Rust "client update required" error is an outdated client. Now, if you have not updated your game client, the fix for this error is pretty simple. However, if you already have updated it, and there is still a version mismatch, we have a solution or two that you can try and implement in order to bypass this problem.

This issue also pops up for players who opt into the beta programs or the Rust Staging Branch (test server) prior to a force wipe. Now, if that's indeed the case, you can check out these easy fixes to potentially bypass this issue and continue your grind

You might be interested in: Rust patch notes (October 4, 2025): Basic Blueprint location update, fixes, and more

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Possible fixes for Rust "client update required" error

Here's a detailed look at some of the potential fixes you can implement in order to fix, or bypass the client update error in Rust:

1) Update the Rust client

Since Rust is exclusively available on Steam, you must ensure that your current build of the game matches the actual live build available on the platform. If you encounter this error, chances are there's a version mismatch, and you might need to update the game.

To do so, follow these steps:

• If you've got Rust open, quit the game.
• Open your game library and look for a potential update. If it's not there, quit Steam and restart it.
• Go back to the game library, and you will find a fresh update waiting to be downloaded on your computer.
• Initiate the update.
• Re-launch the title.

Now, head to the main menu of Rust. Try and join an official or community server in the title. If everything pans out as intended, you have successfully bypassed the Rust "client update required" error and can play the game again.

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2) Verify game files

Verify game files of Rust (Image via Valve)

The Rust "client update required" error can potentially also stem from corrupted game files. If this is the case, no amount of restarts will provide you with an update prompt. You have to verify the game files to ensure everything's intact and in good health. To do so, follow these guidelines:

• Launch Steam and log in with your respective credentials.
• Go to the game library and locate Rust.
• Right-click on the game and head to the 'Properties' tab.
• Proceed to 'Game Files' and hit the 'Verify integrity of game files' button.

This will initiate the verification process, and any corrupted or damaged files in your computer will automatically get repaired or re-downloaded.

After a successful verification, you'll be all set to play Rust again.

Check out: How to fix Rust EAC Client Integrity Violation error

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3) Change your beta setting

In case you are part of some beta testing, or the Staging branch for the game, changing the version via Steam will fix the issue. You can access these options by following these steps in the game:

1. Open the Steam client on your computer.
2. Log in using your credentials.
3. Go to the game library and locate Rust.
4. Here, right-click on the game, and proceed to click on the 'Properties' tab.
5. Next, go to the 'Betas' tab.
6. Here, if you are enrolled in a Staging Branch, you can see it in the 'Beta Participation' tab.
7. Proceed to click on this tab and select the ongoing live build.

Upon following these steps, the game will automatically initiate an update sequence, and it will patch you into the ongoing live servers. This should help you bypass the Rust "client update required" error.

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