AntiGuard

The full write-up

AntiGuard is a self-contained anti-cheat plugin for Minecraft Paper and Purpur servers. It suits operators who want server-side checks, moderation actions, and a dashboard without relying on an external API service. Its useful coverage and database options make it a capable starting point, while its MVP status and narrow 1.20.x scope call for a careful fit. Overview AntiGuard brings detection, enforcement, and administration together in a single server plugin. Installation is straightforward: copy one JAR into the server’s plugins/ folder and restart. Operators can review flags, bans, and kicks in the embedded dashboard, then adjust detection settings live. That is a practical setup for communities that want routine moderation close to the server; the project’s MVP status makes it less compelling for operators who need a mature, broadly supported deployment. Key features Checks cover Fly, Speed, Reach, KillAura, AutoClick, NoSwing, NoFall, and FastBreak. AntiGuard can flag, kick, or ban players, and its REST API supports lifting or appealing ban status. This gives administrators several direct responses to detected activity, but replay analysis is absent, so teams that depend on replay evidence will need a separate workflow. The dashboard shows flags, bans, and kicks, with live controls for detection settings. The REST API exposes stats, flags, bans, kicks, and configuration endpoints, making it useful for operators who want programmatic access as well as a web interface. Write operations can require an API token when one is configured, so token protection depends on the server administrator setting it. AntiGuard can use the database configured for LuckPerms and stores its records in tables prefixed antiguard . Documented options include SQLite, H2, MySQL, MariaDB, and PostgreSQL; if LuckPerms storage cannot safely be reused, the plugin falls back to bundled SQLite. The maker says the plugin needs no external API service or database server, which keeps the basic deployment self-contained. Conservative detection defaults are a sensible starting point, but the maker recommends tuning thresholds or per-check tolerances if legitimate players are flagged. Pricing AntiGuard is free under an MIT license. The free plan includes the Paper/Purpur 1.20.x plugin and Java 17 support. There is no paid tier described, so server communities can use, modify, and distribute the software subject to the license’s conditions. Platforms AntiGuard runs as a self-hosted plugin on Paper and Purpur servers. The install guide specifies Minecraft 1.20.x and Java 17; the maker reports local testing on Paper 1.20.4 with LuckPerms and SQLite, including detection of a fly hack and persistence of its flag. That gives prospective operators a concrete compatibility point, but the documented scope remains limited to 1.20.x. Who it's for AntiGuard is best for Paper or Purpur operators on 1.20.x who want a free, self-contained way to monitor common cheats, apply moderation actions, and manage settings from a dashboard or REST API. Its database fallback helps keep deployment manageable for smaller communities. Choose another tool or add a separate investigation workflow if replay analysis, broader Minecraft-version coverage, or a more mature project is central to your operation. Pros and cons Pros: Eight named detection checks and flag, kick, and ban actions cover common server moderation needs. Pros: A built-in dashboard and REST API put activity review and configuration within reach of both server admins and integrations. Pros: LuckPerms database reuse and bundled SQLite fallback let operators choose among several storage options without requiring a separate database server. Cons: The documented target is Paper/Purpur 1.20.x on Java 17, limiting its fit for servers on other versions or platforms. Cons: There is no replay analysis, which leaves teams without an in-plugin way to investigate incidents through replays. Cons: The project is presented as an MVP, so operators who need a mature production tool should weigh that status carefully. Alternatives Minecraft anti-cheat plugins is a useful starting point if you want to compare the wider plugin category. Consider MLSAC if a free Mini model and web or Windows access better suit your setup; its pricing is freemium. CheckHacks is another always-free option, with self-hosted and web platforms. GuardAC offers a free plan and a free trial, with API and web platforms. MOG-ANTICHEAT is a free self-hosted option whose notes caution that bugs may exist, particularly on 1.12.2 compared with 1.8.9. Advanced Anti-Cheat is a free self-hosted project with a public GitHub repository. VelocityGuard is a free MIT-licensed Minecraft Paper plugin with API and self-hosted platforms. ExploitShield is a free self-hosted option for Minecraft 1.17.x–1.21.x on Paper, Spigot, or Folia, with Java 17+ and PacketEvents 2.13.0+ and ProtocolLib 5.4.0+ required. FoxAddition Anti-Cheat is a free self-hosted Minecraft server plugin; its GitHub release instructions require PacketEvents 2.11.0+. Verdict Choose AntiGuard if you run Paper or Purpur 1.20.x and want a free plugin that combines named checks, enforcement, a dashboard, and REST access without an external service. Its storage flexibility and direct moderation controls are its strongest reasons to use it. Look elsewhere if your server needs a broader version range, replay-based investigation, or the confidence of a project beyond MVP stage.