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PunkBuster is an anti-cheat system for online games made by Even Balance. Players encounter it through supported games, while developers and publishers may seek to license its support for multiplayer titles. The available sources identify games associated with PunkBuster, but do not establish how many people use it or describe their demographics.
Who uses PunkBuster?
Players of supported online games
Players may encounter PunkBuster when they launch or join a supported game or server. Even Balance describes the product as an anti-cheat system for online games, with compatibility for major and proprietary game engines and support for Windows, Linux, and Mac. Even Balance’s product information describes the technology, but platform compatibility does not mean every game or server uses it.
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Game developers and publishers
Developers and publishers are the other potential audience: Even Balance directs them to an anti-cheat licensing inquiry if they want support for an online multiplayer title. This is a licensing contact path, not evidence of a referral or affiliate program.
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Even Balance’s supported-games list names these titles:
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Battlefield 4
- Battlefield 3
- Battlefield Hardline
- America’s Army Proving Grounds
- Far Cry 3
- Ghost Recon Future Soldier
- Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad
The vendor page also gives client and server version identifiers for three Battlefield games: Battlefield 4 client v1.905 and server v2.351; Battlefield 3 client v1.905 and server v2.352; and Battlefield Hardline client v1.905 and server v2.340. Those are software version details on the vendor’s list, not measures of player numbers or proof of present-day popularity. See Even Balance’s supported-games list.
For a storefront example, Steam’s Battlefield 4 listing identifies PunkBuster under “Uses Anti-Cheat Software” and lists online PvP. That establishes an association for this game listing; it does not show that PunkBuster is required on every server, mode, or title.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Does playing one of these games always require PunkBuster?
No universal requirement is established by the available game and vendor pages. Even Balance’s player FAQ addresses players kicked from Battlefield 3, Battlefield 4, and Battlefield Hardline, and notes that uninstalling PunkBuster for relevant games can prevent play. EA’s Battlefield 4 PC EULA says players may opt to install Even Balance’s PunkBuster technology during software installation. These details show that PunkBuster can be involved in play and troubleshooting, not that every server or mode enforces it. See the Even Balance player FAQ and EA Battlefield 4 PC EULA.
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What is not known about PunkBuster users?
The cited sources do not provide a current count of PunkBuster users, a demographic profile, or telemetry showing how many listed games actively deploy it. A supported-games list documents vendor-listed support; it is not a census. Steam review counts, game sales, and the number of supported titles would not establish PunkBuster user totals.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Even Balance’s manuals index frames its documentation for players interested in using or learning about the system, alongside its developer-facing licensing information. That supports the distinction between the players who encounter PunkBuster in games and the companies that may seek its integration, without establishing the size of either group. See Even Balance manuals.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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