Tailcat

Tailscale without Tailscale.

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Console’s review

· Reviewed by David Mytton

What we like

Uses Tailscale’s data plane without using the control plane i.e. connect endpoints without needing a Tailscale account. No IPs, no users, no controls - great for direct connectivity. Works as a CLI or a Go package.

Tradeoffs

You have to run your own DERP server for true Tailscale independence.

Is Tailcat a fit?

Based on Console’s review published on 2026-09-03. Summary updated .

Who it’s for

Developers needing direct connectivity without user management

Why consider it

Enable direct connectivity between endpoints without requiring a Tailscale account

Keep in mind

Requires running own DERP server for full independence

Console is a free weekly newsletter with short reviews of developer tools, covering strengths and tradeoffs. This review reflects Console’s assessment at publication on 2026-09-03. Features and limitations may have changed since the review date. Read our selection criteria and learn about Console.

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