Tailscale
Tailscale creates secure private connections between devices, servers and cloud resources, making them accessible to authorised users across different networks.
Why it caught my attention
Remote access usually means dealing with VPN gateways, firewall rules or network changes. Tailscale takes a different approach: devices can form a private network wherever they are, with access tied to user and device identities. That makes secure connectivity potentially much simpler to deploy and manage.
What problem does this actually solve?
Tailscale could be worth considering if you recognise any of these challenges.
Remote devices are difficult to reach
Access computers and servers across different networks without configuring traditional VPN gateways or opening inbound firewall ports.
Internal services need safer access
Restrict access to private applications and infrastructure using centrally managed rules rather than exposing services publicly.
Infrastructure spans disconnected networks
Connect supported devices and cloud environments through one private network without requiring them to share a physical location.
VPN administration creates extra work
Reduce manual network configuration through identity-based enrolment, central access policies and automatic connection management.
Is this a good fit for you?
A quick way to see if Tailscale is relevant for your situation.
- You need secure remote access to servers, desktops or development environments.
- Your infrastructure spans cloud providers, offices or home networks.
- You want private connectivity without maintaining conventional VPN gateways.
- Your team needs identity-based access controls for internal resources.
- You want to connect remote devices with minimal network configuration.
- You only need ordinary public internet access, not private connectivity.
- Your environment prohibits external coordination services or additional device software.
How does it work?
In practice, the workflow looks something like this:
Set up a Tailscale account and sign in through a supported identity provider to establish a network called a tailnet.
Install Tailscale on supported computers, servers or mobile devices, then authenticate them to join the same private network.
Configure access policies to control which users, devices or groups can reach particular services and network resources.
Access authorised devices using their Tailscale addresses or names, with encrypted connections established directly where network conditions allow.
Add subnet routers for existing networks, review connected devices and adjust access policies as infrastructure or team requirements change.
What else should I know?
A few important things to be aware of before you investigate further.
Coordination service and connectivity
Tailscale uses a hosted coordination service; connections may require relay servers when direct peer-to-peer connectivity is unavailable.
Device and network compatibility
Check supported operating systems, installation permissions and subnet routing requirements, especially for devices that cannot run Tailscale directly.
Plans and feature availability
Free and paid plans have different user limits, administrative capabilities and features. Confirm current entitlements before deployment.
Access policies require planning
Private connectivity does not automatically grant every device access; administrators must configure and maintain appropriate access policies.
Think Tailscale could fit your environment?
Visit the Tailscale website to find out more, request a demo or speak to their team.
Something you'd like to know about Tailscale?
Is there something I haven't covered in my research? Send me your question and I'll look into it and reply personally by email.