[David Liao]

Thank you for your questions. Yes, the “Copy Invitation Link” method works in free mode.

1. Outside of the United States, it’s sometimes necessary to pay the internet service provider a modest additional monthly fee for a “Public IP” in order to be able to use peer-to-peer applications like FarPlay without having one side port-forward. Another solution that might be available (depends on your internet service providers) would be to enable IPv6 on both users’ routers.
2. What internet service providers are you and your friend using? Mobile (example: 5G) internet providers are often set up in a way that makes using peer-to-peer apps like FarPlay more difficult. Additionally, you’ll likely get a better quality connection on FarPlay using a landline connection, so switching to VDSL, cable, or, even better, fiber internet is recommended.
3. Make sure Windows’s Firewall isn’t blocking traffic for FarPlay. Either allow FarPlay specifically through the firewall, or turn the Windows firewall off completely: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/turn-microsoft-defender-firewall-on-or-off-ec0844f7-aebd-0583-67fe-601ecf5d774f
4. Make sure a 3rd-party security app isn’t blocking traffic for FarPlay. For example, if you use Norton, see https://support.norton.com/sp/en/us/home/current/solutions/v64908971
5. Make sure to turn off VPN, if used.

Thank you,
David Liao