ZeroTier alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave ZeroTier: licensing terms have changed over time, and admin console is less polished than Tailscale. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces ZeroTier, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Tailscale currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best ZeroTier alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best ZeroTier alternative for most people
TailscaleEasier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.
Best ZeroTier alternative for a free option
NetBirdOpen-source WireGuard mesh you can self-host with SSO built in.
Best ZeroTier alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
TailscaleEasier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.
Best ZeroTier alternative for open source
NebulaFully open-source overlay you run yourself, proven at large scale.
Best ZeroTier alternative for self-hosting
NetmakerSelf-hostable WireGuard networks with site-to-site support.
Best ZeroTier alternative for Mac
TailscaleEasier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.
Best ZeroTier alternative for Windows
TailscaleEasier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.
Best ZeroTier alternative for iPhone and Android
TailscaleEasier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.
ZeroTier alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to ZeroTier?
Tailscale ranks first right now. Easier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console. NetBird and Nebula follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to ZeroTier?
Yes. Tailscale (free plan + paid), NetBird (open source), Nebula (open source) and Netmaker (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to ZeroTier?
Yes: Tailscale, NetBird, Nebula and Netmaker, plus 1 more in the list above. NetBird, Nebula and Netmaker can also be self-hosted.
Which ZeroTier alternatives work on Linux?
Tailscale, NetBird, Nebula, Netmaker and Headscale run on Linux.
Why do people switch from ZeroTier?
The complaints we hear most: licensing terms have changed over time; admin console is less polished than Tailscale; business pricing jumps quickly.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces ZeroTier, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.