A custom Rust map needs a public download link. The server and new players use that link to download the .map file, so it must stay available.
Check the map link
Open the link in a private browser window. It should download the .map file directly without asking you to sign in or click a download button. Use a stable URL for the exact map version you want to run. A normal sharing page will not work.
Set it in Startup
- Stop the server and create a completed backup before replacing the current world. Record the previous map URL, seed and world size.
- Open Startup in the Konnect game panel. On Rust Autowipe, paste the direct link into Custom Map URL.
- Keep Level set to Procedural Map. When Custom Map URL has a value, it takes the place of the procedural seed and world size.
- Start the server and watch Console for download or map loading errors. Wait for Server startup complete.
- Join from Rust and check that the expected map loads for a player as well as the server.
If Custom Map URL is missing, contact Konnect support. The separate URL field is for the server’s website button, not its map.
If the map will not load
Check that the link still downloads the file and that the map supports the current Rust version. Send support the first map loading error from Console and the map URL. Uploading a file through Files alone does not provide a public download for players.
Before changing worlds, see the Rust wipe checklist. For a direct connection test, see joining Rust by IP.
Official reference: Facepunch’s custom map requirements, Rust Custom Map URL setting.
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