To point your World of Warcraft client to a private server, you need to modify the realmlist.wtf file located in your WoW installation folder. Replace the existing text with the logon address provided by your chosen private server (e.g. set realmlist logon.example.com), then launch the game using the Wow.exe file, not the Battle.net launcher.
Steps to Connect to a Private Server:
- Locate the realmlist.wtf file: Navigate to your World of Warcraft directory (e.g. C:\Program Files\World of Warcraft).
- Find the Data Folder: Open the data folder for your specific expansion (e.g. enUS or enGB) to find the realmlist.wtf file.
- Edit the File: Open realmlist.wtf with Notepad or any text editor. Delete the existing line and replace it with the address provided by the private server (e.g. set realmlist logon.server.com).
- Save and Close: Save the file and close the text editor.
- Launch the Game: Run the game using Wow.exe directly from the folder, not the Battle.net launcher.
Important Tips:
- Expansion Match: Ensure your client version matches the expansion the private server is running.
- Account Creation: You must create an account on the specific private server's website before logging in.
- Keep Separate: It is highly recommended to have a separate, dedicated WoW installation folder for private servers to avoid issues with your official retail installation.
- Don't Use Email: Do not use your retail Battle.net email/password for private server accounts.