The random characters placed after §k are always the same width as the original characters. Messages sent from the server to the client can contain color codes, which allow the coloring of text for various purposes. Use "§" followed by the corresponding color letter/number e.g.
Furthermore, if an obfuscated code is used and a reset code is not used before the end of the line, the client GUI continues to obfuscate text past the MOTD and into the version number display. In Bedrock Edition, formatting codes persist after a color code.
Therefore, when using a color code in tandem with a formatting code, ensure the color code is used first and reuse the formatting code when changing colors. For example, §cX§nY displays as X Y, whereas §nX§cY displays as X Y. In Java Edition, if a color code is used after a formatting code, the formatting code is disabled beyond the color code point.
In Bedrock Edition, the § symbol can be used in any text input, while in Java Edition, it may be used in server.properties, pack.mcmeta, world titles, and server names. A § symbol followed by a hex digit in the message tells the client to switch colors while displaying text. Text can be formatted using the section sign (§) followed by a character.