Software Alternatives & Startups

OpenConnect VS TailScale

Compare OpenConnect VS TailScale and see what are their differences

OpenConnect

VPN client compatible with Cisco AnyConnect SSL VPN

Rating
0 reviews
TailScale

Private networks made easy Connect all your devices using WireGuard, without the hassle. Tailscale makes it as easy as installing an app and signing in.

Rating
5.0 · 1 review
Pricing
Open source

Which is more popular?

Based on our record, TailScale seems to be more popular. It has been mentioned 546 times since March 2021.

social mentions
0 vs 546
Cloud VPN popularity
6% vs 94%
alternatives listed
43 vs 240+

Base details

Website, pricing, platforms and company facts side by side.

OpenConnect
TailScale
Website infradead.org tailscale.com
Pricing
Open source Official pricing
Company Startup from Canada · 10 - 19 employees · 2019
Listed in

Features and specs

What each product offers, as listed by its team.

OpenConnect 5 features
TailScale 5 features
  • Open Source
    OpenConnect is an open-source project, which means it is free to use, distribute, and modify. Users can inspect the source code for security vulnerabilities and customize it to fit their needs.
  • Compatibility
    OpenConnect is compatible with multiple VPN protocols, including Cisco's AnyConnect SSL VPN, Juniper's Network Connect, and Pulse Secure. This makes it a versatile tool for connecting to various network systems.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    It runs on various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, allowing users to connect to VPNs from different devices and environments.
  • Community Support
    Being an open-source project, OpenConnect benefits from contributions and support from a global community of developers and users who add features, fix bugs, and assist with troubleshooting.
  • Security
    OpenConnect offers strong security features, including support for DTLS and SSL/TLS protocols, providing encrypted and secure connections.

Possible disadvantages

  • Complex Setup
    For users unfamiliar with command-line interfaces and VPN configuration, setting up OpenConnect can be complex and challenging.
  • Limited GUI Support
    OpenConnect primarily operates via the command line and lacks a comprehensive graphical user interface (GUI), which might be a disadvantage for users who prefer graphical tools.
  • Documentation Variability
    While there's documentation available, users might find inconsistencies or gaps due to the decentralized nature of contributions, making troubleshooting less straightforward.
  • Feature Parity
    In certain cases, OpenConnect may lack some features present in the proprietary VPN clients it aims to replace, potentially limiting functionality for some advanced configurations.
  • Ease of Use
    TailScale is easy to set up and configure. It provides a user-friendly interface and automates many complex networking tasks, making it accessible even for those with limited networking knowledge.
  • Security
    TailScale uses WireGuard for its underlying encryption, providing strong security for data transmitted across the network. End-to-end encryption ensures that your data remains safe from interception.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    TailScale supports a wide range of operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, allowing for seamless integration across various devices and platforms.
  • Scalability
    TailScale can easily scale from small to large networks, making it suitable for both individual use and enterprise-level deployments.
  • NAT Traversal
    TailScale provides automatic NAT traversal, which simplifies the process of connecting devices behind different routers and firewalls without requiring complex port forwarding rules.

Possible disadvantages

  • Dependency on TailScale's Infrastructure
    Using TailScale requires reliance on their central coordination servers for initial connection setup and identity management. This could be a concern if the service experiences downtime or other issues.
  • Privacy Concerns
    Since TailScale routes initial connection metadata through their servers, some users may have privacy concerns, especially in highly sensitive environments.
  • Cost
    While TailScale offers a free tier, advanced features and larger-scale deployment options can be costly, potentially making it less suitable for budget-conscious users.
  • Limited Advanced Configuration
    TailScale's simplicity can be a downside for advanced users who require granular control and configuration options that go beyond what TailScale's interface offers.
  • Proprietary Software
    TailScale is a commercial product with proprietary elements, which might not appeal to open-source enthusiasts or organizations that prefer fully open-source solutions.

Analysis

An editorial look at what each product does well and who it suits.

OpenConnect
TailScale

No analysis of OpenConnect yet.

Overall verdict

  • Tailscale is highly regarded among users looking for a secure, reliable, and simple way to connect devices over the internet. Its straightforward approach to VPN management makes it a good choice for both personal and professional use cases. The integration with identity providers also streamlines user management, enhancing its appeal for business environments.

Why this product is good

  • Tailscale is often praised for its simplicity, security, and ease of use when managing VPNs. It allows users to connect devices in different locations and networks quickly without much configuration hassle. Tailscale leverages the WireGuard protocol, known for its speed and robust encryption, making the connections both fast and secure. Additionally, Tailscale's use of identity-based access control and multi-factor authentication enhances its security features. Its ability to traverse NAT and firewalls seamlessly is another advantage, reducing the setup complexity found in traditional VPN solutions.

Recommended for

  • Individuals needing secure remote access to personal devices.
  • Small teams and startups seeking a user-friendly VPN solution without complex infrastructure.
  • Businesses looking for scalable VPN solutions with support for user identity integration.
  • Developers and IT professionals needing secure remote access to internal tools and services.

Videos

Walkthroughs and reviews on video.

OpenConnect 1 video + Add
TailScale 1 video + Add

How to Use TorGuard's Stealth VPN (Openconnect vs OpenVPN Stunnel)

The Byte - Tailscale Private networks made easy

Category popularity

How often each product is chosen within a category, 0–100% relative to the other.

Score bands 0–20 21–40 41–50 51–60 61–100
OpenConnect
TailScale
6% 6%
94% 94%
2% 2%
VPN
98% 98%
3% 3%
97% 97%
100% 100%
0% 0%

User comments

Share your experience with using OpenConnect and TailScale. For example, how are they different and which one is better?

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Reviews and articles

External articles and on-site reviews we used to compare the two products.

OpenConnect no reviews yet
TailScale 5.0 · 1 review

We have no reviews of OpenConnect yet. Be the first one to post

Social recommendations and mentions

Recommendations tracked on public social media and blogs since March 2021.

OpenConnect 0 mentions
TailScale 546 mentions

Tracking OpenConnect since Mar 2021.

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Alternatives to OpenConnect and TailScale

When comparing OpenConnect and TailScale, you can also consider the following products.