OpenVPN vs Tailscale: What are the differences?

Key Differences between OpenVPN and Tailscale

Both OpenVPN and Tailscale are popular VPN solutions, but they have several key differences that set them apart:

1. Ease of Use: OpenVPN is a widely adopted protocol that requires manual installation and configuration on each device, making it more complex for average users. On the other hand, Tailscale offers a streamlined experience with simple setup and automatic synchronization across devices, making it easier to deploy and manage.

2. Networking Infrastructure: OpenVPN uses traditional client-server architecture, where a central server mediates the connection between clients. Conversely, Tailscale employs a more modern peer-to-peer architecture, allowing devices to connect directly to each other without needing a central server. This decentralized approach enhances network agility and reduces latency.

3. Network Accessibility: OpenVPN requires a public IP address or port forwarding to establish connections between devices. In contrast, Tailscale utilizes a unique feature called "Magic DNS" that enables devices to communicate securely without requiring public IP addresses or port forwarding. This makes Tailscale more accessible in scenarios where configuring network settings may be challenging.

4. Supported Platforms: OpenVPN supports a wide variety of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. Tailscale, while also compatible with these platforms, offers additional support for BSD-based systems like FreeBSD and OpenBSD. This broader platform support makes Tailscale suitable for a wider range of environments.

5. Scalability: OpenVPN may face challenges when scaling up to a large number of clients due to its reliance on a central server for connection mediation. In contrast, Tailscale's peer-to-peer architecture allows it to handle larger networks more efficiently by distributing the network load across connected devices. This scalability advantage makes Tailscale well-suited for deployment in enterprises or organizations with extensive networks.

6. Security and Authentication: OpenVPN offers robust security features, including support for different encryption algorithms and authentication methods. Tailscale strengthens security by utilizing WireGuard, a modern and lightweight VPN protocol that focuses on simplicity and strong cryptography. While both solutions prioritize security, the specific protocols and authentication methods used may differ.

In summary, OpenVPN and Tailscale have significant differences in terms of ease of use, networking infrastructure, accessibility, supported platforms, scalability, and security/authentication features. Choosing between the two depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user or organization.