I swapped my router's VPN for an ESP32, and I stopped thinking about remote access

For years, I set up a VPN on my ASUS RT-AX88U router to access my home lab remotely. It worked but required opening a VPN app on my laptop each time, waiting for the connection, and then starting work. A few weeks ago, I replaced that setup with an ESP32-S3 turned into a Tailscale entry point. Since then, I no longer think about VPN steps.

Many mid-range routers come with built-in VPN configurations, but they require port forwarding, a dynamic DNS service, and VPN clients on each device. This setup was cumbersome and required disconnecting each time I left home. After switching to Tailscale, I no longer use the router's VPN. Tailscale doesn't need port forwarding or dynamic DNS.

My ESP32-S3, placed next to my router, quietly maintains the connection. It consumes minimal power and handles SSH sessions and small file transfers well, but struggles with heavier tasks. The ESP32 also becomes a single point of failure if it loses power or crashes. However, for my use case, the simplicity and reduced maintenance outweigh the drawbacks. If your homelab's VPN feels like too much upkeep, consider using an ESP32 with Tailscale.