Tailscale Installation
Tailscale is a secure, easy-to-use VPN that allows devices to communicate with each other as if they were on the same private network.
This guide explains what Tailscale is, what it is used for, and how to install it on supported operating systems.
What is Tailscale?
Tailscale creates a private encrypted network between your devices using WireGuard.
Once installed and connected:
- Devices receive a private VPN IP address
- Devices can communicate securely
- No port forwarding is required
- No router configuration is required
Tailscale works automatically across different networks and locations.
What Tailscale is used for in Turn Off PC
In Turn Off PC, Tailscale is used to enable remote control features.
When devices are connected through Tailscale, Turn Off PC can:
- Shut down a computer remotely
- Put a computer to sleep remotely
- Restart a computer remotely
Without Tailscale, these features work only inside the local network.
Requirements
To use Tailscale, you need:
- An internet connection (for setup and coordination)
- A supported operating system
- A Tailscale account (free tier is sufficient)
IMPORTANT: Tailscale must be installed on BOTH devices:
- The computer you want to control (Windows/macOS/Linux)
- Your mobile device running Turn Off PC (Android/iOS)
Both devices must use the same VPN and be connected to the same Tailscale network.
Installation overview
For mobile devices (Android, iOS)
Install Tailscale from the official app stores:
- Android: Google Play Store
- iOS: App Store
After installing on your mobile device:
- Open the Tailscale app
- Sign in with the same account used on your computer
- Authorize the device
For computers (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Follow the platform-specific guides below:
Once both devices are connected to Tailscale, they will be on the same private network.