Should You Use Headscale Instead of Tailscale?

Опубликовано: 13 Июнь 2026
на канале: 45HomeLab
37,019
1.2k

Tired of wondering if there's a better alternative to Tailscale? In this video, we break down Headscale vs Tailscale—the self-hosted mesh VPN that's taking the homelab community by storm.

Headscale gives you complete control of your networking stack with zero monthly fees, open-source security, and no device limits. But is self-hosting the coordination server right for your homelab? We cover everything:
✅ The architecture differences (control plane & data plane explained)
✅ WireGuard encryption, DERP relay, and subnet routing—what stays the same
✅ Privacy, pricing, and the honest feature gaps
✅ Real-world decision checklist—Tailscale vs Headscale
✅ Step-by-step Headscale installation with Headplane dashboard (port forwarding, CGNAT check included)

Whether you're running Proxmox, Docker, or managing a multi-device homelab network, this comparison cuts through the noise and helps you choose. We also explore NetBird, ZeroTier, and other self-hosted networking solutions.

Full written guide & installation docs: https://docs.45homelab.com

LINKS-
https://github.com/juanfont/headscale
https://github.com/tailscale/tailscale
https://github.com/gurucomputing/head...
https://github.com/tale/headplane

Build your HomeLab with us:
HL15 Beast: https://store.45homelab.com/configure...
HL15 2.0: https://store.45homelab.com/configure...

Stay Connected Follow Us on Social:
Instagram:   / 45homelab  
Facebook:   / 45homelab-61577345404910  
X: https://www.x.com/45homelab

To be the first to receive 45HomeLab announcements, news, and events, subscribe to the 45HomeLab newsletter here: https://45homelab.com/#footer-heading.

Hey everyone, almost 90% of you watch our videos but aren’t subscribed yet! If you’re enjoying the content, hit Subscribe and turn on the bell. It really helps us stay connected

#homelab #vpn #headscale #tailscale #opensourcecommunity #45drives #techtips