Does Discord Have IP Bans or Just Server Bans? Explained
Ever get banned on Discord? Or maybe someone told you about it? Whether you’re a curious lurker or the friend who’s “always in trouble,” it helps to know what kind of bans Discord actually uses. Does Discord track your IP? Or do they just block you from a server?
Let’s Break It Down
There are two types of bans most people talk about on Discord: server bans and IP bans. They sound similar, but they act very differently.
1. Server Bans – The Local Lockout
Imagine a party. You show up, things get weird, and the host says: “You. Out.” That’s a server ban.
- Only applies to one server.
- You can still chat in other servers.
- You can even make your own server!
- If you create a new account, you might sneak back in (but don’t try this at home).
This kind of ban is like getting kicked out of a club. It’s limited. It doesn’t stop you from going elsewhere.
2. IP Bans – The Digital Force Field
This one’s serious. Discord doesn’t play when it comes to IP bans.
- Banned across your entire IP address.
- All accounts from that internet connection are blocked.
- Even new accounts won’t work.
- Public networks? Also blocked.
If a server owner asks Discord to give someone the boot from *everywhere*, and Discord agrees, you might end up with a full-on IP ban.
Wait. What’s an IP Address?
Good question. Your IP address is like your digital home address. It tells Discord where your internet request is coming from.
So when Discord blocks your IP, it’s like saying: “We don’t want anything from this address anymore.” Even if you move furniture (aka make new accounts), you’re still sending it from the same place. Boom. Blocked.
When Does Discord Use an IP Ban?
Discord doesn’t hand out IP bans like candy. They’re saved for the big stuff.
- Breaking the Discord Community Guidelines
- Mass spamming or botting
- Hacking servers or DDoS threats
- Sharing illegal content
Basically, if you’re doing things that seriously break rules — not just annoying stuff, but actual dangerous behavior — an IP ban might appear in your life like a big red STOP sign.
Can You Get Around an IP Ban?
Let’s be real: people try.
Some methods might include:
- VPNs (Virtual Private Networks)
- Changing your IP (by resetting your router)
- Using mobile data or another Wi-Fi
But Discord’s smart. They also track things like your client ID, cookies, and device info. So even if you get a new IP, Discord might still recognize you.
Moral of the story: Don’t risk it. If you’re banned, appeal it the right way.
But Wait — What’s a Device Ban?
You didn’t hear that wrong. Discord has leveled up its ban game. Now they often combine device bans with IP bans.
So if you get banned, it could mean:
- Your IP is blocked
- Your actual device (PC, phone) is flagged
- Even reheating your Hot Pocket won’t fix that
Can Server Mods See My IP?
Nope! Nope! Nope!
Only Discord sees your IP. Not the server admins. Not the friendly mod who loves cat emotes. Just Discord’s team and their systems.
Server owners can hit the ban button, but it doesn’t expose your private info. That stays private, as it should.
What Happens When You’re Banned?
Let’s say it happens. You’re banned. Now what?
- You can’t access the server (server ban)
- Or you can’t open Discord at all (IP/device ban)
- Everything looks normal until… *error message*
The message might say something like: “You are banned from this server.” Or it might be something fancier. Either way, you’re locked out.
Can You Appeal a Discord Ban?
Yep! Especially for IP bans and full account bans.
Here’s how:
- Go to Discord’s support page
- Select “Trust and Safety” from the dropdown
- Explain what happened, be polite, and give them your user info
Don’t wait for a miracle. Just be honest and direct. Appeals don’t always work, but it’s your best hope if you feel the ban was unfair.
Prevent Getting Banned in the First Place
This part is easy. Follow the rules!
Quick tips to stay in Discord’s good books:
- No spam or self-bots
- Don’t harass others
- Use appropriate names and images
- Listen to server mods
Sounds simple, right? That’s because it is. Be cool, and you’ll be fine.
Tips for Server Mods and Owners
If you’re a mod wondering how to ban a bad apple:
- Right-click on the user and click “Ban [Username]”
- You can delete their messages from last 24 hours or 7 days
- The ban works on that server only
Want more control? Use bots like Dyno, MEE6, or Carl for advanced rules and automated bans.
Final Thoughts
So, does Discord have IP bans or just server bans?
The answer is: both.
Server ban = You’re kicked out of a single group.
IP ban = Your entire internet connection (and devices!) may be blocked.
If you’re behaving badly enough, Discord might throw the big hammer. So, be kind, play nice, and follow the rules.
Because let’s be honest — Discord is way more fun when you’re not banned.
