A Realm is a subscription world hosted by Mojang. You invite specific people. You do not open a port on your home router, and the world stays up when your computer is shut.
Before you pay
- Everyone needs the same edition. A Bedrock Realm does not accept Java players.
- The owner needs the subscription. Friends join with their own copy of the game.
- Decide who is allowed to build. Realm settings can limit that.
Invite codes
Java 26.3 added invite codes for Realms, alongside the older member list. Create a code, send it to the person, and retire it when the group is set. A code is a key. Do not post it in a public comment thread if the world is supposed to stay private.
When a Realm is the wrong tool
A handful of friends on the same couch can use local co-op on a console. A large public community wants a proper server with moderators. A Realm sits between those, and that is the point.
On this page
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