Install Tailscale on Windows

This guide explains how to install and set up Tailscale on Windows so the computer can participate in remote control features.

Supported systems

• Windows 10
• Windows 11

Applies to both desktop and laptop computers.

What this setup does

After completing this guide:

• Tailscale will be installed on Windows
• The computer will join your private Tailscale network
• The device will receive a Tailscale VPN IP
• Remote features in Turn Off PC will work across networks

Step 1: Download Tailscale

1. Open a web browser
2. Go to the official Tailscale website
3. Download the Windows installer

Always download Tailscale from the official website. https://tailscale.com/download

Step 2: Install Tailscale

1. Run the downloaded installer
2. Follow the installation wizard
3. Accept the default options
4. Complete the installation

Administrator privileges may be required.

Step 3: Sign in to Tailscale

After installation:

1. Tailscale will start automatically
2. A browser window will open
3. Sign in using one of the supported login providers
4. Authorize the device

Once authorized, the computer joins your Tailscale network.

Step 4: Verify connection

After signing in:

1. Open the Tailscale app from the system tray
2. Confirm that:
   • The status shows Connected
   • The device appears in the list of connected machines

At this point, Tailscale is active.

Step 5: Run Tailscale automatically (recommended)

By default, Tailscale starts automatically with Windows.

To verify:

1. Open Task Manager
2. Go to Startup
3. Ensure Tailscale is enabled

This ensures remote features continue to work after reboot.

Step 6: Allow network access (firewall)

Windows Firewall is automatically configured during installation.

If you use third-party firewall software:

• Ensure Tailscale traffic is allowed
• Do not block the Tailscale network interface