What Is an RSPS? A Beginner's Guide to RuneScape Private Servers
New to private servers? Learn what an RSPS is, how it differs from official RuneScape, the main types of server, and how to start playing on your first one safely.
RSPS stands for RuneScape private server. It is a game server run by a community or a small team instead of Jagex, the company behind RuneScape and Old School RuneScape. You download the server's own game client, create an account on it, and play in a separate world with its own players, economy, and rules.
This guide explains how private servers work, how they differ from the official game, and how to get started on your first one.
How an RSPS works
Every RSPS runs its own game world on its own hardware. It does not connect to the official game, so nothing you do on a private server carries over to an official account, and nothing from your official account carries over to the server.
- Its own client. You play through a client supplied by the server, usually downloaded from its website or Discord.
- Its own accounts. You create a new username and password for each server you join.
- Its own rules. The owners decide the XP rates, the content, the drop rates, and how the economy works.
How an RSPS differs from official RuneScape
| Official RuneScape | RSPS | |
|---|---|---|
| Run by | Jagex | Independent owners and volunteers |
| Cost | Free tier plus paid membership | Usually free, often with an optional donation store |
| XP rates | Fixed | Set by each server, often much faster |
| Content | Official updates | Anything from a faithful copy of the game to custom bosses, items, and areas |
| Accounts | Your Jagex account | A separate account on each server |
The main types of RSPS
Servers are usually described by the version of the game they are built on, the style of play they focus on, or both.
- OSRS private servers use Old School RuneScape's game data, including its modern bosses and raids.
- 317 servers are built on a client from the mid-2000s and have a classic look.
- Custom servers add their own items, bosses, and systems.
- PvP servers get you into player combat quickly.
- Economy servers make you earn your items, and prices are driven by players.
- Ironman servers offer self-sufficient modes where you can't trade with other players.
Our guide to RSPS revisions explains what these numbers and labels mean and which one might suit you.
How to start playing
- Browse a list of servers. The RunePort toplist ranks servers by player votes and daily activity. Servers can't pay to move up it.
- Read the listing. Look at the vote trend, the player reviews, and the live player count if the server shows one.
- Visit the server's website and Discord. An active Discord is one of the best signs that real people play there.
- Download the client from the official link only. Use the link on the server's own website or in its Discord. Some clients also need Java installed.
- Create your account with a new password. Never reuse a password from anywhere else, especially your Jagex account.
- Join the community. Most servers run their announcements, support, and events through Discord.
Questions new players ask
Do I have to pay to play an RSPS?
Usually not. Most servers are free to play and pay for hosting through an optional store. Check what the store sells before you commit to a server, since some sell items far stronger than anything you can earn by playing.
Can I use my Old School RuneScape account?
No. A private server has its own accounts, so you always start fresh with a new username and password.
Which RSPS should I play first?
Choose the style you'd enjoy, then pick an active server in that style. If you already play OSRS, an OSRS-based server will feel familiar. You can compare the best RSPS servers or see new RSPS servers if you'd like to join one early.
How do I know a server is safe?
No list can promise that, so check for yourself before you download anything. Read Are RSPS Safe? for how to protect your computer and accounts, and how to spot real servers for the warning signs of a bad one.
