LibertyBans

LibertyBans is a free Minecraft moderation plugin for server owners who need configurable punishments and staff controls. It suits both standalone servers and networks spanning multiple proxies or instances. Its broad platform and database support is compelling, though Java 17 and some platform-specific dependencies add deployment work.

Overview

LibertyBans combines day-to-day discipline tools with controls for how staff use them. That makes it a stronger fit for servers with defined moderation roles or a multi-instance setup than for administrators seeking only a minimal punishment command set.

It can run on one server with minimal resources or scale across a network. Owners can choose a local HyperSQL database or remote MariaDB, MySQL, or PostgreSQL, balancing a simpler local arrangement against a shared database for multiple instances.

Key features

Moderators can issue bans, mutes, warnings, kicks, and temporary punishments, with corresponding removal commands for players and IP addresses. Templates vary punishment type, reason, and duration, while exemptions can restrict who may punish whom—for example, keeping trainees from banning administrators. These controls support consistent policy and tiered staff authority, but require owners to configure rules that match their team.

LibertyBans can identify suspected alternate accounts, display suspected alts by command, notify staff when they join, and automatically apply IP bans to suspected accounts. Automatic enforcement can reduce repeat-account work, but is best suited to teams comfortable making that intervention part of their moderation policy.

For networks, multiple proxies and instances can synchronize through an installation on a proxy or on multiple backend servers. A developer API allows other plugins to work with LibertyBans. Configuration includes connection-pool and statement-cache settings, giving administrators control over database behavior. The project also says dependencies use secure SHA-512 hashes and builds are reproducible for checksum verification.

Pricing

LibertyBans is free software: its Free plan costs nothing and includes supported Minecraft server platforms. There are no paid tiers or plan-specific seat, quota, or trial terms to weigh; the main costs are the Java and platform requirements and the work of configuring a deployment.

Platforms

LibertyBans supports Bukkit, Spigot, Paper, Purpur, Folia, BungeeCord, Waterfall, Fabric, Sponge, and Velocity, with proxy support. It requires Java 17. Fabric requires adventure-platform-mod, and mutes on a Velocity proxy require SignedVelocity on both the proxy and backend servers. Those dependencies matter when choosing a platform: compatibility alone does not eliminate setup steps.

The project directs bug reports to GitHub issues and provides a wiki and Discord support. Most of the software is licensed under GNU AGPL version 3 or later, while some components use GNU LGPL version 3 or later; operators should consider those terms when incorporating or distributing it.

Who it's for

LibertyBans is a sound choice for Minecraft server owners who want a free moderation system with configurable punishment policy, staff exemptions, and synchronized multi-instance support. It is less suitable for a server that cannot meet Java 17 or required platform dependencies, or for teams that do not need its configuration depth.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Punishments cover bans, mutes, warnings, kicks, temporary actions, and removal commands for players and IP addresses, giving moderators a broad set of controls in one plugin.
• Pro: Templates and staff exemptions support consistent rules and differentiated permissions, useful for teams with multiple moderation roles.
• Pro: Support for several proxy and server platforms, remote databases, and synchronized instances can accommodate network deployments as well as standalone servers.
• Con: Java 17 is mandatory, and Fabric and Velocity mutes bring extra dependencies that complicate deployment on those platforms.
• Con: Automatic IP bans for suspected alternate accounts may not suit teams that prefer to review suspected links before taking enforcement action.

Alternatives

For other options, see Minecraft Moderation Plugins. ModGUI is another free, self-hosted option, with a stated requirement of Paper 1.21.11 or newer. Staff+ may fit teams looking for a free self-hosted option for Paper, Purpur, or Folia 1.20–1.21+ and Velocity 3.3.0+.

BanManager is a free option described by its maker as open source, with contributions welcome. Nimbus AntiCheat is a free, self-hosted option with stated requirements of Paper 1.21.8 (compatible forks may work), Java 21, PacketEvents, and Java-edition players. AdvancedSensitiveWords, ChatSentinel, PunishBAN, and ReducedX-Anti Cheat are also listed as free, self-hosted alternatives.

Verdict

Choose LibertyBans if you need free, configurable Minecraft punishment administration that can scale from one server to a synchronized network, particularly when staff roles need distinct exemptions. Look elsewhere if Java 17 or the added Fabric and Velocity requirements are a poor fit, or if a lighter moderation setup would better match your needs.