OpenZiti

Self-Hosted

Open-source zero-trust network overlay for secure connectivity

Overview

OpenZiti enables secure, direct connectivity between services, devices, and users without exposing them to the public internet. It uses encrypted overlay networks to create zero-trust tunnels, supporting edge computing and cross-environment deployments (cloud, on-prem, IoT). Deployable via Docker, Kubernetes, or binaries, it offers fine-grained access control, service segmentation, and replaces traditional VPNs to reduce attack surfaces for remote teams or distributed systems.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  openziti:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: openziti
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Zero-trust overlay network for secure, private connectivity
Fine-grained access control and service segmentation
Cross-environment support (cloud, on-prem, IoT devices)
VPN replacement with encrypted, direct tunnels

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is OpenZiti hard to install?

OpenZiti offers simplified deployment via Docker, Kubernetes, or pre-built binaries for technical users. However, configuring overlay networks and access policies requires familiarity with zero-trust principles and CLI tools, so beginners may need to reference documentation or tutorials to get started.

? Is OpenZiti a good alternative to traditional VPNs?

Yes—OpenZiti replaces VPNs by providing direct, encrypted access to specific services instead of full network access. This reduces attack surfaces and is more scalable for distributed teams or IoT devices, making it a modern alternative to legacy VPN solutions.

? Is OpenZiti completely free?

Yes—OpenZiti is open source under the Apache 2.0 license, so it’s completely free to use, modify, and self-host. There are no hidden fees or subscription requirements for core functionality.

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Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Miscellaneous

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused zero-trust architecture eliminates public exposure
⊕ 100% open source with no subscription fees
⊕ Flexible deployment (Docker, Kubernetes, binaries)
⊕ Reduces attack surface for distributed systems

Cons

⊖ Steeper learning curve for network configuration and zero-trust concepts
⊖ Requires server/edge router deployment (no fully managed option)
⊖ Limited graphical UI (primarily CLI-driven for advanced tasks)