Running a Plex server? Or, for that matter, any server, maybe a dashboard you need external access for, or even a personal website — port forwarding is one of the most common issues to come across. It sounds simple, and on paper it is.

All you've got to do is get your router to open a port, point it at the right device or service, and let the internet pass through. But it rarely works as easily as that. Fact of the matter is, even when using high-end equipment, port forwarding can be a never-ending hassle. But there's a better way to handle this. Just install Tailscale instead.

Why Tailscale is better than port-forwarding

A secure mesh that just works

Unlike port forwarding that pokes holes in your home network, Tailscale creates a secure mesh internet connection between your devices. Effectively, this allows all your devices to behave as if they were on the same local network. Moreover, Tailscale works across different internet connections and without a complicated router setup. While port forwarding is a credible solution, the fact of the matter is that Tailscale is the better option for most users.

Now, if you're wondering why you need this when port forwarding works just the same, I've got your back. As I mentioned earlier, port forwarding basically opens specific doors or windows into your home network. These doorways allow internet traffic between, say, your Plex server and a remote client, but they can also be scanned, and ports left open inadvertently can be exploited by others wanting to use your network.

It's a security risk waiting to happen unless you are diligent about setting up firewalls and traffic monitoring. Brute force attempts and bots scanning for open ports are far more common than most people realize, and anything that you can do to reduce your attack surface is a positive.

Port forwarding can also be problematic if your ISP assigns you a dynamic IP address. You'll want to set up a dynamic DNS like No-IP to handle configuration changes, or you could find yourself locked out of your own network while trying to access it remotely. Moreover, it's a hassle to set up on a per-device and software basis. Plex might require specific ports to be opened, while a game server might require a different set of ports. You catch my drift. It's just too easy to drop your guard.

Tailscale makes it much simpler. For one, the software uses the fully encrypted and secure Wireguard protocol to create its internet tunnels. Moreover, the service doesn't need to expose any ports to the internet. Instead, it creates an encrypted peer-to-peer mesh network between all your devices.

Instead, every computer or smartphone that you install Tailscale on becomes part of a private network between all these devices and any other person that you might invite to your network. This allows all services to behave as if they are on the same local network, even though you might be halfway across the world. In fact, depending on your home network configuration, you might even be able to install it on a router to give the same local access to every device on your network.

Simple setup with no router configuration needed

Enterprise grade tools for everyday use

If that's not enough, Tailscale offers additional benefits as well. Not only does it ensure that your ports stay closed and secure, but it is also significantly easier to install. Almost as easy as installing an app from your computer or smartphone's app store. You can even install it directly on your NAS. There's no digging into router configurations.

All you've got to do is head on over to the Tailscale website, download the relevant app for your operating system, sign in, and you're good to go. Once the client is installed and linked to your account, that's it. The device becomes a part of your local network and gets its own IP address. No worrying about dynamic IP or DNS.

Of course, that's just touching the surface. Tailscale offers a range of additional functionality, including advanced solutions such as access control lists and network segmentation. If your family members are part of your Tailscale tunnel, you can choose to restrict their access to just a media server NAS but not to other aspects of your home network. It's very flexible. Moreover, built on the WireGuard protocol, it's incredibly efficient at keeping latency levels low.

Another feature that makes WireGuard an overall winner has nothing to do with port-forwarding, but everything to do with convenience. You see, WireGuard effectively operates like a VPN tunnel between your devices and home network. Using WireGuard's Funnel feature, you can use split tunneling to control which aspects of your device act like it's on a local network, and which part accesses the open web.

Tailscale makes remote access simple and secure

Look, port forwarding is a credible solution in many situations. But if your goal is to reach specific devices and self-hosted services over the internet, there are better ways to achieve it. Tailscale helps you avoid unnecessary risks, IP changes, and more. Creating a private, encrypted network between your devices makes remote access safer, simpler, and far more reliable. P

Additionally, features like its easy scalability through apps, advanced network management features, and split-tunneling make it a no-brainer if it fits your needs.