DevOps Paradox DOP 316: Bringing Back the Original Internet Vision Using Tailscale
Sep 17, 2025
Avery Pennarun, CEO at Tailscale, shares insights on the future of network connectivity. He highlights the limitations of traditional VPNs compared to Tailscale's innovative approach that enables seamless virtual networks. The conversation touches on the importance of security in modern software development and how Tailscale embraces a 'zero trust' framework. Avery also dives into the evolution of trust in SaaS and the significance of transparent, open-source solutions in boosting user confidence. It's a fascinating look at the intersection of security and connectivity.
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A Different Kind Of VPN
- Tailscale is technically a VPN at layers 3/4 but feels and behaves differently than consumer VPNs.
- It operates low in the stack to provide connectivity without the typical VPN user experience.
Restoring The Internet's Peer Connectivity
- The internet originally allowed device-to-device connections, but layering firewalls and cloud models broke that model.
- Tailscale inserts a layer to restore direct peer-to-peer connectivity and remove decades of workaround 'crud'.
Prioritize Compatibility Over Constant Change
- Support broad platform compatibility and strong version interoperability to avoid breaking networking across devices.
- Preserve backward compatibility so devices that are offline for years still work in emergencies.