A simple Tailscale Funnel alternative for localhost
tunnel.to exposes a local application through a public HTTPS URL without requiring the application or your computer to join a tailnet.
Start anonymously without creating a private network, reserve a persistent hostname for free, or upgrade for a custom domain when the endpoint becomes part of a repeatable workflow.
tunnelto 3000When you need a public URL, not a tailnet
Tailscale Funnel is designed to publish a service from a device already participating in a Tailscale network. tunnel.to is built for the direct workflow: point the client at a local port and receive a public HTTPS URL.
- Share a local development server
- Receive webhooks on localhost
- Expose a local API temporarily
- Demo an application without joining a private network
Tailscale Funnel vs tunnel.to
| Capability | tunnel.to | Tailscale Funnel |
|---|---|---|
| Public HTTPS endpoint | Yes | Yes |
| Requires a private network | No | Requires a tailnet |
| Use without an account | Yes | No |
| Generated hostname | tunnel.to hostname | Tailnet ts.net hostname |
| Persistent hostname | Free reserved name; paid custom domain | Tailnet device hostname |
| No inbound ports | Yes | Yes |
Tailscale Funnel is a natural choice when the service already belongs to a tailnet. tunnel.to is the focused alternative when the job is simply to expose localhost through public HTTPS without first configuring a private network.
Verified October 20, 2026 against Tailscale Funnel documentation and Tailscale Funnel CLI reference .
Start disposable. Make it permanent later.
Try it
localhost → anonymous public URL
Keep it
localhost → free persistent tunnel.to hostname
Upgrade it
localhost → paid custom domain + access controls
Related guides
Related comparisons
Frequently asked questions
What is a Tailscale Funnel alternative?
It is another way to publish a local or private service through a public internet endpoint.
Does tunnel.to require a tailnet?
No. You can start an anonymous tunnel without creating or configuring a Tailscale network.
Can I use tunnel.to without creating an account?
Yes. tunnel.to supports anonymous tunnels with generated public hostnames.
Can I keep the same public hostname?
Yes. Reserve a tunnel name for free, or attach a custom domain on a paid plan.
The shortest path from localhost to public HTTPS.
Start anonymously, reserve a stable hostname for free, or upgrade for a custom domain.
