# Defguard: Free Open Source Alternative to Zerotier

Canonical: https://caniforkit.com/fork/defguard
Last updated: 2026-11-07

Defguard (Open Source, Open Source) replaces Zerotier. Enterprise-grade open source VPN solution combining WireGuard with mandatory 2FA/MFA and integrated OpenID Connect SSO for secure remote access

## Tool Specifications
- **Tool Name**: Defguard
- **Type**: Open Source Project
- **License**: Open Source
- **Official Website**: https://defguard.net
- **GitHub Repository**: https://github.com/defguard/defguard
- **GitHub Stars**: ★ 2.9k
- **Runs On**: Self-host
- **Maintenance Status**: nov 2026
- **Platforms**: web, self-hosted, docker to self-host
- **Data Storage**: All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
- **Installation**: Clone https://github.com/defguard/defguard or deploy with Docker Compose
- **Setup Requirements**: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
- **The Catch / Limitation**: Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Zerotier.

## Paid SaaS Applications Replaced (1)
Replacing these paid tools with Defguard saves up to $6/mo ($72/yr) in software subscriptions:

| Replaced Software | Category | SaaS Price | Comparison Guide |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Zerotier](https://caniforkit.com/zerotier) | [security](https://caniforkit.com/category/security) | $6/mo | [Compare Zerotier vs Defguard](https://caniforkit.com/vs/zerotier-vs-defguard) |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is Defguard free and open source?
Defguard is an open source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on self-host. Enterprise-grade open source VPN solution combining WireGuard with mandatory 2FA/MFA and integrated OpenID Connect SSO for secure remote access

### What is the trade-off or limitation of using Defguard?
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Zerotier.

## Related

- [Self-Hosted Open Source Directory](https://caniforkit.com/self-hosted)
- [All Paid SaaS Alternatives Index](https://caniforkit.com/alternatives)
- [Software Categories Directory](https://caniforkit.com/categories)
- [Homepage](https://caniforkit.com)