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ZeroTier

A software-defined network that links devices anywhere as if they were on the same LAN.

Free plan + paidSelf-hostableVPN services
Visit ZeroTierSee 5 alternatives
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About ZeroTier

ZeroTier creates virtual networks that make devices in different places behave as if they share a local network. Unlike many mesh tools, it works at layer 2, so things like broadcast discovery and older LAN games can work across the internet. You install the ZeroTier One client, join a network by ID, and approve devices in a web console or your own controller. It is popular with gamers, home-lab users and companies connecting IoT devices and remote sites. The free tier covers small personal networks, with paid plans for businesses and custom pricing for large or self-hosted deployments. The project has been around for over a decade and supports a wide range of systems. Its client licensing has changed over time, so check the current terms if that matters to you. Clients run on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, FreeBSD, Docker, OpenWRT and NAS devices. It suits people who need LAN-style networking across locations.

Best for: Gamers, home-labbers and IoT projects that need LAN-style networking across sites.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Layer-2 networking, so LAN discovery works
  • Runs on routers, NAS boxes and unusual platforms
  • Free tier for small personal networks

Why people leave

  • Licensing terms have changed over time
  • Admin console is less polished than Tailscale
  • Business pricing jumps quickly

Top ZeroTier alternatives

See all 5
  1. 1Tailscale logo
    Tailscale

    Easier setup with identity-based login and a polished admin console.

    66.5
  2. 2NetBird logo
    NetBird

    Open-source WireGuard mesh you can self-host with SSO built in.

    62.6
  3. 3Nebula logo
    Nebula

    Fully open-source overlay you run yourself, proven at large scale.

    59.6
  4. 4Netmaker logo
    Netmaker

    Self-hostable WireGuard networks with site-to-site support.

    57.2
  5. 5Headscale logo
    Headscale

    Self-host a Tailscale-compatible control server.

    55.3

Why people left ZeroTier

In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.

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Reviews

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ZeroTier: common questions

Is ZeroTier free?

ZeroTier has a free plan and paid plans. Free tier: Yes (checked on ZeroTier's own site).

Is ZeroTier open source?

No, ZeroTier is not open source. Open-source alternatives include Tailscale, NetBird and Nebula.

What platforms does ZeroTier run on?

ZeroTier is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and Self-hosted.

What are the best alternatives to ZeroTier?

The highest-ranked ZeroTier alternatives right now are Tailscale, NetBird and Nebula. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 5 ZeroTier alternatives