A simple Docker container for accessing your Tailscale tailnet from any device with Docker installed. Perfect for when you need quick, secure access to your tailnet.
git clone [email protected]:markallanson/tailnet-shell.git
cd tnsh
# Option 1: Authenticate with an authkey
TS_AUTHKEY=YOUR_TS_AUTH_KEY_HERE docker compose up -d
# Option 2: Authenticate via browser
docker compose up -d
docker compose exec -it tnsh tailscale up
# Follow the URL provided to authenticate
# Access your tailnet
docker compose exec -it tnsh bash- Persistent Connection: The container establishes and maintains a connection to your tailnet, allowing you to create new shells instantly.
- Debian-Based: Built on debian-slim for familiarity and package availability.
- Pre-installed Tools: Includes curl, ssh and other essential utilities for network tasks.
- Persistent State: The compose configuration stores Tailscale state in a Docker volume, so you don't need to re-authenticate after restarting
- Access your tailnet from anywhere that can run docker.
- SSH into machines on your tailnet.
- Transfer files between your tailnet devices.
- Test connectivity from outside your network.
TS_AUTHKEY: Your Tailscale authentication key (optional)
To install additional packages, you can modify the Dockerfile or install them at runtime:
docker compose exec -it tnsh apt-get update && apt-get install -y your-package- Container starts but can't connect to tailnet: Check your authentication status with
docker compose exec tnsh tailscale status - Authentication URL not appearing: Check container logs with docker compose logs
- The container configured using the compose file runs in privileged mode.
- Your Tailscale authentication key provides access to your tailnet - keep it secure.