Zerotier vs WireGuard: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zerotier and WireGuard comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Zerotier
Software-defined networking platform
Best for you if:
- • You need infrastructure as code features specifically
- • ZeroTier is a software-defined networking tool for virtual networks
- • It creates secure, private networks connecting devices anywhere
WireGuard
Fast and modern VPN protocol
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need encryption features specifically
- • WireGuard is a fast, modern VPN protocol for secure networking
- • It provides simpler, more performant tunnels than IPsec or OpenVPN
| At a Glance |  Zerotier |  WireGuard |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Infrastructure as Code | Encryption |
Rating | 85/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Zerotier | WireGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Infrastructure as CodeVPN | EncryptionVPN |
How Zerotier and WireGuard Compare
Zerotier
Software-defined networking platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
WireGuard
Fast and modern VPN protocol
Free · 90/100 score
Zerotier is a infrastructure as code tool. WireGuard is in encryption.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
WireGuard is free. Zerotier is freemium.
Go with: WireGuard
Want the highest-rated option?
Zerotier: 85/100. WireGuard: 90/100.
Go with: WireGuard
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: WireGuard
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Zerotier is freemium. WireGuard is free. Go with WireGuard if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Zerotier is a infrastructure as code tool. WireGuard is in encryption. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
WireGuard scores higher: 90/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
WireGuard
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 85
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Zerotier
- Better fit for infrastructure as code
The Bottom Line
WireGuard (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zerotier or WireGuard better?
WireGuard scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Zerotier is freemium and WireGuard is free.
What are Zerotier and WireGuard used for?
Zerotier: Software-defined networking platform. WireGuard: Fast and modern VPN protocol.
What does Zerotier cost vs WireGuard?
Zerotier is freemium (free tier + paid plans). WireGuard is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.