I keep my chain well lubricated, but I ensure that the sides are wiped dry to prevent excess dirt from accumulating. I think due to this, the side is developing rust on it surface, so will it be a problem or can I just ignore it? So my rollers look all nice and shiny but the sides look all brown.

On an older chain, there's plenty of extra steel in the plates, so I'd say don't sweat it. Modern, narrower chains such as for 9, 10, or 11s have thinner plates and less margin for error. Unless the rust is serious it's still not time to panic, but don't ignore it.

I commute daily, rain or shine, and like you wipe the chain occasionally to keep the surface from building up too much dirt. When I see the beginning of rust, usually at the edges of the plates, I put some oil on a rag and wipe it over the chain. I use very little for this, just enough to establish a film.

Overall, all season riders have to balance the need to keep the chain clean against leaving a protective film to prevent rust.

& next chain , think Nickel plated.. rather than black steel.

Just oil it and keep wiping it.

Thanks for the info! I will ensure there is a light coating of oil and thanks for the tip on nickel plated chains.

I have lots of tools and wipe them with an oily rag after use to keep them from getting rusty. The oil left behind protects the metal. I could wipe them with a clean dry rag afterwards to remove the oil, but then they'd rust.