Security, Legal & HRFree plan

Headscale

Headscale is an open source, self-hosted implementation of the Tailscale control server.

HeadscaleUpdated monthly · checked 23 h ago

Headscale is a security, legal and HR perk from Headscale, offering free open source (self-hosted), with no funding required.

Value
Free
Who qualifies
No funding needed
Benefit type
Free plan
Apply at Headscale

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While you apply

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What you get

Inside Headscale

Headscale is an open source, self-hosted implementation of the Tailscale control server. Its scope is narrow: a single Tailscale network (tailnet), suitable for personal use or a small open-source organisation. Its documentation is for self-hosters and hobbyists.

Source: The provider's official program page

Eligibility

Who it's for

Self-hostedAny startup
Funding / backing
No funding needed
Geography
Global
Recurring / expiry
Open source with no time limit.
Other requirements
Built for one tailnet, suitable for personal use or a small open-source organisation.
How to claim

How to apply for Headscale

Steps to apply
  1. 1Install it on your own server from headscale.net.
  2. 2No application is needed.
Good to know: Plans read on headscale.net on October 28, 2026.
Apply at Headscale

Source: The provider's official program page

Value is the headline maximum Headscale advertises. What your company actually receives depends on your eligibility and how you use the program, and terms can change. A comparison, not endorsed by the programs listed. A link labeled as a referral link may earn us a commission, and a program labeled Same owner comes from the company that runs StartupPerks. Confirm current terms on the provider's page.
Questions

Headscale: common questions

What do you get with Headscale?

Headscale offers free open source (self-hosted).

Who qualifies for Headscale?

Headscale is open to any startup, with no funding required. Built for one tailnet, suitable for personal use or a small open-source organisation.

Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get Headscale?

No. Headscale is open to any startup that meets the stated criteria, no investor or accelerator backing required.

How do I apply for Headscale?

Install it on your own server from headscale.net. No application is needed.

How long do I have to use Headscale, and does it expire?

Open source with no time limit.

Is Headscale available outside the US?

Headscale is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.

Free business VPNs, comparedHeadscale's free plan next to every other free VPN serviceWhat each VPN service gives you free today, its main limit and what the first paid plan costs, read from each provider's own page.
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