Official servers are run by the game publisher. Private servers are run by independent communities, often customizing rates, rules and features. This can mean more variety and faster play, but also risks: stability, fairness, unclear rules and the chance that a server closes without notice.
Main differences
- Operator: the publisher versus an independent team.
- Rules and rates: fixed versus customized.
- Support: formal versus community-based.
- Longevity: private servers can close or reset.
Risks to consider
- Do not reuse passwords from other services.
- Be careful with downloads: only use sources recommended by the server and scan them.
- Understand how donations work before spending money.
- Private servers are not connected to the publisher and may not be permitted by it.
Staying safe
Read the rules, check the community and keep your expectations realistic. See How to choose a Lineage 2 private server: a checklist.
General guide. Rates, rules and features differ per server. Editorial policy: how we write the guides