Private Root (aka Moons) No longer suggested in Zerotier Docs

Community Support
2

I totally agree with this question.

First of all, if you want to have your:

  1. self-managed own root server with many limitations
    or
  2. self-managed moon server (compatible with default=original mobile apps)

I would recommend to read this.

own root (1.):

I think the first solution has little to do with ZT’s factory-network.
My experience during this last 2 month, (since I’ve installed it and testing ever since) :

  • It is stable. Even if I read continously here on the forum that people had problems.
  • A bit faster, because the location of it is in the same country, and nobody else is using it, except my clients only.
  • Win7 client installation is difficult. (Win10/11 a bit less.) = overwriting planet file.
  • Can use unique configured port ! Not just the factory one.
  • If your server (VPS) gets new IP → you need to change planet files at all clients !
  • You need high linux knowledge + high networking experience! (SSH, log overflow, DoS attacks, firewall configurations, etc. It’s sometimes a nightmare!)
  • iOS / iPad / iMac does not work at all !

own moon (2.)

  • This is the default setup of ZTNET (if you do not click the “Create own …” button.
  • I feel it has a bit independence, but not completely.
  • ZT will be able to use your server too, and that’s OK, because You will “give back” a little for the development of this app.
  • You can use “default” planet file at clients, but that means you can not operate your service on a specific port. It will be all default.
  • If your country’s ISPs starting to block default ZT’s port, you will be blocked.
  • Same VPS setup + maintenance problems as with “1.”

vs. Factory network (3. ZT’s company)

  • all apps work out of the box
  • very easy to setup
  • same problem with default port as “2.”
  • easy web-manage system, much more setup possibilities!

But (of course) you have to pay for it. And IMHO that’s OK too.

Summary

I don’t fully understand the decision of the owner/company either.
This sentence drops up too many negative questions.
There are two sides of this blade:

Pozitive for ZT company:

  • maybe a bit more money
  • less support problems. (currently this forum does not distinguish between 1/2/3)

Negative aspects:

  • If users start to feel forced / bind hands → they will simply drop ZT and head to an other solution. (Netmaker / Headscale / WireGuard / SoftEther / … other 100+ solutions )
  • without self-hosted moons ZT has to install+maintain new servers over the whole word by themselves.
  • The network will be overstressed. Especially “relayed” clients.
  • Companies who has to comply strict data-protection policies will not be able to use ZT.
  • Those, who own their own server, but still want to “donate” for the great app (like me :wink: ) → will drop this.
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