Velocity review
A free, open-source proxy for routing players across multi-server Minecraft networks.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Velocity is an open-source, self-hosted proxy for Minecraft server networks. It routes players to configured backend servers and supports Paper, Spigot, Fabric, Forge, Vanilla, SpongeVanilla, and other implementations. Its audience is server administrators running networks that need players to move between connected servers while retaining configurable forwarding, authentication, and routing controls.
The pricing model is straightforward: Velocity is available as free, open-source software. It can be deployed on Windows, macOS, Linux, or other self-hosted environments, with downloadable JAR builds provided for server hosts. There are no paid plan distinctions to compare; the main ownership consideration is operating the proxy and its connected backend servers. Configuration covers server connections, forced hosts, queries, rate limits, forwarding, and authentication, so it fits teams comfortable managing Minecraft infrastructure.
Velocity’s strongest functional area is network coordination. Fallback connection attempts can help players connect when they join or are kicked, while player transfers support movement between connected servers. Built-in proxy administration commands and a plugin API extend its network-management options. PaperMC documents compatibility with Minecraft 1.7.2 through 26.3, although the supported range may change as releases evolve. Choose Velocity when a Minecraft network needs a flexible, general-purpose proxy with broad backend compatibility and plugin support. A hosted service or a narrower, managed tool may suit teams that do not want to operate proxy infrastructure themselves.
Velocity pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source deployment across Windows, macOS, Linux, or self-hosted hosts
- Fallback routing, player transfers, forwarding, and built-in administration commands
- Supports Paper, Spigot, Fabric, Forge, Vanilla, and SpongeVanilla backends
- Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment leaves hosting and administration to your team
- Requires configured backend servers, routing rules, and proxy settings
- Documented Minecraft version support may change with future releases
Velocity fact sheet, pricing and score →
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