Rust - Steam not open & startup errors

This guide is for troubleshooting the startup error "Steam not open?" and common startup errors. 

The following methods are in order of most commonly resolved.

1. Restart Steam

1. Close the Rust client
2. Close Steam
3. Re-Launch Steam
4. Re-Launch Rust

If the problem persists please move 2. Update Steam or try restarting your computer.

  2. Update Steam

1. Close the Rust client
2. On the Steam client navigate to > Steam > Check for Steam client updates
   1. If no updates are found please go to step 3. Opt-out of Steam betas
3. If prompted download and restart Steam
4. Reopen the Rust client

If you're still seeing the "Steam not open?" after updating Steam please proceeds to step 3. Opt-out of Steam betas

3. Opt-out of Steam betas

1. Close the Rust client
2. On the Steam client navigate to > Steam > Settings
3. Under "Beta participation" click "Change" which will open a new window
4. On the "Beta participation" drop-down section select "NONE - opt out.."
5. Apply any Steam updates if prompted.
6. Restart Steam
7. Open Rust client

If you're still seeing the "Steam not open?" after this step please proceed to step 4. Verify Rust files

4. Verify Rust Files

Please refer to the following support article: Verify Rust Files

5. Perform a fresh install

Please follow this article: https://support.facepunchstudios.com/hc/en-us/articles/360019318177-Performing-a-fresh-install