Our verdict: Tailscale makes it easy to reach your home PC, NAS or servers from anywhere as if they were on the same network. Setup takes minutes and needs no router changes. It depends on a login through an existing account, and the free plan is for personal use.
About Tailscale
Tailscale builds a private network, called a tailnet, between your devices using WireGuard encryption. Each device gets a stable private address, and connections go directly between devices whenever possible, falling back to relays when they cannot.
You sign in with an existing identity provider such as Google, Microsoft or GitHub. The free Personal plan covers up to 6 users and unlimited user devices for non-commercial use. Features like MagicDNS, exit nodes and file sharing with Taildrop work on the free plan.
What it does well
- WireGuard mesh. Encrypted connections directly between your devices.
- No port forwarding. Works behind most routers and firewalls without configuration.
- MagicDNS. Reach devices by name instead of IP address.
- Exit nodes. Route your internet traffic through one of your own devices.
- Taildrop. Send files between your devices.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who want to reach a home PC, NAS or game server from anywhere without exposing it to the internet.
Look elsewhere
Users looking for a privacy VPN with servers in other countries, or companies on the free plan.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Setup in minutes
- No router configuration
- Free for up to 6 users
- Core client is open source
Cons
- Requires an account with a supported identity provider
- Coordination runs through Tailscale's servers
- Free plan is for non-commercial use
How to install Tailscale
Install Tailscale and sign in from the tray icon with Google, Microsoft, GitHub or another supported login. Install it on the other devices with the same account. Manage devices, keys and access rules in the web admin console.
Questions about Tailscale
Is Tailscale free?
Yes. The Personal plan is free for non-commercial use with up to 6 users and unlimited user devices. Business plans are paid.
Is Tailscale a VPN like Proton VPN?
No. Tailscale connects your own devices to each other. It does not provide servers in other countries, though you can use one of your devices as an exit node.
Do I need to open ports for Tailscale?
No. Tailscale works behind most routers and firewalls without port forwarding.
