To create a private network with ZeroTier, create a network in ZeroTier Central, install the official client on each device, join using the network ID, authorize each intended device, and test communication between members. A network ID lets a device request to join; it does not authorize that device by itself.
This guide uses “VPN” in ZeroTier’s sense of connecting devices over a managed virtual network. It does not automatically route all your internet traffic through a privacy-VPN server.
What ZeroTier does—and what it does not do
ZeroTier installs a client on endpoints such as computers, servers, virtual machines, and containers. A network controller manages membership and network configuration. You can use ZeroTier Central for hosted administration, or choose to operate a controller yourself; self-hosting is not required for an ordinary setup. ZeroTier describes the platform as a way to connect devices without new hardware.
ZeroTier says network traffic is encrypted, private keys stay on devices, and peer traffic is routed directly where possible. Those are claims made in ZeroTier’s security documentation, not an independent audit. Encryption does not replace careful membership approval, endpoint security, or host firewall rules.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet (300mbps for 2.4GHz plus 900Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K stream
- Full Gigabit Ports - Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, ideal for any internet plan and allow you to directly connect your wired devices
- Boosted Coverage - Four external antennas equipped with Beamforming technology extend and concentrate the Wi-Fi signals
- MU-MIMO technology - (5GHz band) allows high speeds for multiple devices simultaneously
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
By default, ZeroTier is not a consumer privacy VPN that sends all browsing through a VPN exit server. Default-route and DNS behavior have separate configuration settings and are disabled by default, according to the client configuration documentation.
Create a network and connect your devices
- Create the network: Sign in to ZeroTier Central and create a network. The Quickstart Guide covers the modern Central interface and Legacy Central; follow the instructions for the interface you see. Copy the network ID.
- Install the official client: Download ZeroTier from the official downloads linked from the quickstart and install it on each computer, server, VM, or other endpoint you want to connect.
- Join the network: Use the client’s desktop interface to join with the network ID, or, where a terminal workflow is appropriate, run
sudo zerotier-cli join NETWORK_ID. ReplaceNETWORK_IDwith the ID you copied. Joining sends a membership request; it does not grant access. - Review and authorize members: In Central, inspect each newly joined device and authorize only devices you recognize and intend to include. Compare its identity and context with your expected device list. ZeroTier recommends managing devices directly rather than using a bulk authorization action, which can approve unintended members.
- Confirm addressing and test: Note the managed ZeroTier IP assigned to each authorized device. From one member, test connectivity to another member’s ZeroTier IP, as the quickstart demonstrates. Then test the particular service you need, such as a remote login or file share. A successful network-level test does not guarantee the service is reachable: the destination operating system’s firewall or the service’s own settings may still block it.
Use private membership and least privilege
For a network meant only for your devices, keep it private and require member authorization. ZeroTier’s controller guide demonstrates a private network with private: true, managed IP assignment, routes, and member authorization; its advice is direct: “Prefer Private networks.” Grant access only to the devices that need it, and remove members when they no longer should have access.
Rank #2
- 【Five Gigabit Ports】1 Gigabit WAN Port plus 2 Gigabit WAN/LAN Ports plus 2 Gigabit LAN Port. Up to 3 WAN ports optimize bandwidth usage through one device.
- 【One USB WAN Port】Mobile broadband via 4G/3G modem is supported for WAN backup by connecting to the USB port. For complete list of compatible 4G/3G modems, please visit TP-Link website.
- 【Abundant Security Features】Advanced firewall policies, DoS defense, IP/MAC/URL filtering, speed test and more security functions protect your network and data.
- 【Highly Secure VPN】Supports up to 20× LAN-to-LAN IPsec, 16× OpenVPN, 16× L2TP, and 16× PPTP VPN connections.
- Security - SPI Firewall, VPN Pass through, FTP/H.323/PPTP/SIP/IPsec ALG, DoS Defence, Ping of Death and Local Management. Standards and Protocols IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.1q
Remember that authorization controls who can join the virtual network; it does not automatically decide which services a member can use. Use host firewalls and application-level access controls to limit services to the users and devices that need them.
Protect the controller and local service
A controller is more than a dashboard. It acts as an authority for the virtual network: it admits members, issues certificates, and provides default configuration. ZeroTier warns that a compromised controller identity secret can enable fraudulent configurations or unauthorized membership, while losing it can prevent further control. Protect that secret and keep a secure backup of the controller data.
Rank #3
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with 5 GHz speeds up to 867 Mbps and 2.4 GHz speeds up to 300 Mbps, delivering 1200 Mbps of total bandwidth¹. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- Covers up to 1,000 sq. ft. with four external antennas for stable wireless connections and optimal coverage.
- Supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Advanced Security with WPA3 - The latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3, brings new capabilities to improve cybersecurity in personal networks
- Restrict access to controller identity files and backups; do not leave them in a shared directory or expose them publicly.
- Restrict access to the ZeroTier service’s working directory and local authentication token. The token controls local service actions.
- Protect the administrator account used to manage the network and authorize members.
The controller’s role and the local service controls are described in What is a Network Controller? and Client Configuration.
Understand direct links, relays, and trusted paths
ZeroTier peers attempt to establish direct communication. If direct connectivity is unavailable, traffic can continue through a slower relay, so a connection may work without being direct and performance can vary. ZeroTier explains this behavior in The Protocol.
Rank #4
- DUAL-BAND WIFI 6 ROUTER: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous gen. All WiFi routers require a separate modem. Dual-Band WiFi routers do not support the 6 GHz band.
- AX1800: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz). Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- CONNECT MORE DEVICES: Wi-Fi 6 technology communicates more data to more devices simultaneously using revolutionary OFDMA technology
- EXTENSIVE COVERAGE: Achieve the strong, reliable WiFi coverage with Archer AX1800 as it focuses signal strength to your devices far away using Beamforming technology, 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset
- OUR CYBERSECURITY COMMITMENT: TP-Link is a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge. This device is designed, built, and maintained, with advanced security as a core requirement.
Do not casually enable trusted paths. ZeroTier’s documentation says a trusted path skips encryption and authentication on the designated physical route, sacrificing virtually all transport security for that path. The protocol documentation cautions: “We don’t recommend the use of this feature unless you really need the performance and you know what you’re doing.” Use it only when you understand the risk and have a specific need.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose hosted administration or a self-hosted controller
ZeroTier Central is the simpler administration path for most users. A self-hosted controller is an optional choice for people who want to operate that authority themselves and can secure, maintain, and back up its identity data. ZeroTier documents a reference controller and a VPS as one possible host or network member; a VPS is not a prerequisite for connecting your devices.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Best Value
- Next-Gen Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Speeds: 2402 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz bands ensure smoother streaming and faster downloads; support VPN server and VPN client¹
- A More Responsive Experience: Enjoy smooth gaming, video streaming, and live feeds simultaneously. OFDMA makes your Wi-Fi stronger by allowing multiple clients to share one band at the same time, cutting latency and jitter.²
- Expanded Wi-Fi Coverage: 4 high-gain external antennas and Beamforming technology combine to extend strong, reliable, Wi-Fi throughout your home.
- Improved Battery Life: Target Wake Time helps your devices to communicate efficiently while consuming less power.
- Improved Cooling Design: No heat ups, no throttles. A larger heat sink and redefined case design cools the WiFi 6 system and enables your network to stay at top speeds in more versatile environments.
Check plan limits before you scale
ZeroTier’s pricing page currently presents these options. Prices and allowances can change, so check the live page before choosing a plan.
| Plan | Displayed price | Included devices | Positioning shown by ZeroTier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal | Free | 10 | Personal use |
| Essential | $18/month | 10 | Paid plan |
| Scale | $179/month | 100 | Larger-scale use |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Custom device arrangements | Enterprise needs |
| Quantum | Custom pricing | Custom device arrangements | Quantum offering |
These are the figures displayed on ZeroTier’s pricing page when checked for this guide; they are not a guarantee of future pricing. The page also differentiates plans by network and administrator allowances and by needs such as self-hosted or air-gapped operation, controls, and support. Review the current plan details for those requirements rather than assuming device count is the only limit.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
