What is the test realm?
The World of Warcraft test realm is used to test the next content patch in a live environment before it is released to public realms. The test realm is currently running the version of the game that will be included in the next content patch. If you would like more information on the content of this next patch, click here to see the patch notes. .

How often will the test realm be available?
The test realm becomes available to players a week or two before every content patch.

Who can play on the test realm?
Anyone who has an active World of Warcraft account created before May 9 can play on the test realms.

How do I play?
Please follow the instructions located here to download the files necessary to log in to the test realm. We encourage you to copy one of your existing characters to the test realms.

Will the progress my character makes on the test realm show up on the public servers?
No. What happens on the test realm stays on the test realm. Any experience and levels your character gains on the test realm cannot be transferred to the public realms.

Is my character on the test realm permanent?
No. Characters and all associated items can be deleted during testing, and all characters will be wiped on completion of the testing phase.

Can I switch back to live servers?
Yes. Please follow the instructions located here to find out how to switch back and forth from the test realm to the public realms. Please remember that any progress you make with your character on the test realms will not be reflected on your character on the public realms.

Can I create a new character on this test realm?
Yes. But we encourage you to copy one of your existing characters to the test realm, so you can experience the new content going in next patch.

Is the version of the game on the test realm the same as the one that is currently running on the public realms?
No. The test realm is running a version of the game that contains all of the content going in next patch.