LibertyBans

LibertyBans is a Minecraft server plugin for administrators who want configurable punishments and control over staff authority, whether they run one server or a network. Its broad platform and database compatibility is a strong asset; Java 17 and a few platform-specific dependencies add deployment considerations.

Overview

LibertyBans combines routine discipline tools with options for coordinating punishment records across multiple instances. A single server can use a local database, while network operators can configure synchronization across proxies or backend servers. That range makes it more adaptable than a basic command-only setup, though multi-server use calls for deliberate database and synchronization configuration.

Key features

Moderators can issue bans, mutes, warnings, kicks and temporary punishments, and remove punishments for players or IP addresses. Templates can vary punishment type, reason and duration; exemptions can limit which staff members may punish others, such as preventing trainees from banning administrators. Those controls suit teams with defined roles and policies, but they require owners to decide and configure the rules.

LibertyBans can identify suspected alternate accounts, display suspected alts through a command, notify staff when they join and automatically enforce IP bans against them. These tools give moderators ways to respond to related accounts, while automatic enforcement is best suited to servers whose moderation policy supports that approach.

For storage, administrators can choose local HyperSQL or remote MariaDB, MySQL or PostgreSQL. The local option suits a standalone server seeking a simpler arrangement; remote databases provide choices for operators configuring a network. A developer API lets other plugins work with LibertyBans. The project also says dependencies use secure SHA-512 hashes and builds are reproducible so checksums can be verified, which gives operators a way to verify build integrity.

Pricing

LibertyBans is free: its Free plan costs nothing. It includes the free software and supported Minecraft server platforms, with no paid tier described. That removes a software fee for both small servers and larger networks; operators still need to meet the runtime and platform requirements.

Platforms

LibertyBans supports Bukkit, Spigot, Paper, Purpur, Folia, BungeeCord, Waterfall, Fabric, Sponge and Velocity. It can run on a proxy or backend servers, with synchronization configured for multi-instance deployments. Java 17 is required, and Fabric installations require adventure-platform-mod. For mutes on a Velocity proxy, SignedVelocity must be installed on both the proxy and backend servers. These requirements make it important to check compatibility and dependencies before choosing an installation.

Who it's for

Choose LibertyBans if you need a free punishment system that can serve a standalone Minecraft server or a network, and value staff exemptions, configurable templates or database choice. It is less compelling for an operator who wants the simplest possible installation and does not need those controls, particularly if Java or platform-specific dependencies are a poor fit.

Pros and cons

Pros: Broad server-platform and database support gives owners room to fit the plugin to a standalone or network setup.

Pros: Templates and exemptions can align punishments with staff roles and moderation policy.

Pros: The free plan includes the software without a subscription cost.

Cons: Java 17 and platform-specific dependencies add compatibility checks before installation.

Cons: Velocity mutes require SignedVelocity on proxy and backend servers.

Cons: Multi-instance synchronization and configurable staff rules require setup rather than working as policy decisions made for the operator.

Alternatives

For a Paper-focused server on version 1.21.11 or newer, ModGUI is another free, self-hosted option, under the MIT license. Staff+ is worth considering for a self-hosted setup on Paper, Purpur or Folia 1.20–1.21+, or Velocity 3.3.0+, and is also free under the MIT License.

BanManager is another free option; its maker describes it as open source and welcomes contributions. If the priority is anti-cheat checks and related staff tools rather than LibertyBans' broad punishment and platform coverage, Nimbus AntiCheat offers a free plan with 43 checks, Paper 1.21.8 support, per-check punishments, player reports, staff inspection tools and Discord webhook notifications.

ExtraBan is a free self-hosted plugin for Paper or a fork, requiring version 26.2+ and Java 25+. Player Report is another free self-hosted Minecraft server plugin, with native/tested major version 1.21. For another free, self-hosted option, consider PunishBAN; AdvancedSensitiveWords is also free and self-hosted.

See more options in Minecraft Moderation Plugins.

Verdict

LibertyBans is a strong fit for Minecraft server owners who want a free, configurable punishment system that can grow from one instance to a network. Its chief advantage is the combination of staff controls, broad platform support and database flexibility; look elsewhere if Java 17, extra dependencies or multi-instance configuration make the setup too demanding.