Getting Started with ZeroTier Central

What is ZeroTier Central?

ZeroTier Central is a Software Defined (SD) network solution that replaces traditional VPNs, offering easier setup and more efficient networking capabilities for organizations with distributed teams, remote access needs, or multi-cloud integrations. With ZeroTier, you can connect devices securely and seamlessly across various locations without the need for complex configurations associated with VPNs.

Unlike traditional VPNs, ZeroTier uses a peer-to-peer (P2P) approach for direct connections, allowing devices to communicate directly over a virtual network with low latency. It's highly adaptable, supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and various IoT platforms.

How to Install ZeroTier

Follow these steps to install ZeroTier on your preferred platform:

Linux

Step 1: Open a terminal and run the following command to add the ZeroTier repository:

curl -s https://install.zerotier.com | sudo bash

Step 2: Install ZeroTier:

sudo apt install zerotier-one

Windows

Step 1: Download the Windows installer from ZeroTier Download Page.

Step 2: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

macOS

Step 1: Download the macOS installer from ZeroTier Download Page.

Step 2: Open the downloaded file and drag the ZeroTier application to your Applications folder. Launch ZeroTier from there.

How to Configure ZeroTier

After installation, configure ZeroTier by creating and joining virtual networks.

Step 1: Create a ZeroTier Network

1. Go to https://my.zerotier.com/ and log in or create an account.

2. On your dashboard, select Create a Network to set up a new virtual network. Note the unique network ID assigned to this network, as you’ll need it to connect devices.

Step 2: Join a Device to the Network

To add devices to the network, use the following steps:

Linux

sudo zerotier-cli join [NETWORK_ID]

Windows & macOS

In the ZeroTier app, click Join Network and enter the network ID.

Once joined, authorize the device on the ZeroTier Central dashboard by enabling the checkbox next to the device’s entry under Members.

Step 3: Configure Network Settings

Customize the network settings from the ZeroTier Central dashboard. You can set specific IP ranges, enable or disable routing, and configure private or public network access as needed for your organization.

How to Use ZeroTier

Once all devices are connected, ZeroTier acts like a local network, allowing devices to communicate directly. Here are a few examples of ZeroTier usage:

• File Sharing: Share files directly between devices without configuring a separate VPN or firewall rules.
• Remote Access: Access services or applications hosted on another machine in the network as if they were on the same local network.
• Secure IoT Connections: Connect and manage IoT devices securely across locations with minimal configuration.

To access a specific device, use the IP address assigned by ZeroTier in the network settings. This IP can be used in SSH connections, file transfer applications, and remote desktop connections.