What is Tailscale?
Introduction
Tailscale is a modern, easy-to-use VPN (Virtual Private Network) service that allows you to securely connect your devices, no matter where they are, as if they were on the same private network. Unlike traditional VPNs, Tailscale is built on WireGuard, making it fast, secure, and simple to set up without complex firewall or router configurations. Instead of routing all your internet traffic through a centralized VPN server (like traditional VPNs), Tailscale creates a private peer-to-peer (P2P) network between your devices.
Capabilities of Tailscale
- Zero-config VPN: No need to configure firewalls or open ports
- End-to-end encryption: All connections are fully encrypted using WireGuard
- Multi-device networking: Access your home computer, work server, or any connected device from anywhere
- Access control & authentication: Uses OAuth, SSO (Single Sign-On), and identity providers like Google, Microsoft, and Okta
- Split tunneling: Choose which traffic goes through the VPN while keeping other connections direct
- MagicDNS: Simplifies accessing devices by using human-readable names instead of IP addresses
- Runs on any network: Works behind NATs and firewalls without manual configuration