Choosing the right networking solution can make or break your infrastructure’s efficiency and scalability. With Netmaker, you have two powerful options: Community Edition and Professional Editions (SaaS & On-Prem). Each is tailored to specific needs, but which one is right for you? Let’s dive into their features and differences to help you make the right choice.
What is Netmaker Community Edition?
The Community Edition (CE) is Netmaker’s open-source offering, designed for developers, small teams, and those who value simplicity and cost-effectiveness. It includes essential features for building and managing VPNs, making it ideal for basic setups and experimental deployments.
Key Features:
Build & Manage Multiple VPNs — create multiple meshed networks.
BYO WireGuard — use your own WireGuard clients.
Egress Traffic to External Networks — route node traffic outside the mesh.
Integrated DNS Server — private DNS resolution within the network.
Access Controls (basic) — restrict communications between nodes.
Remote Access — external clients can connect into the mesh.
Network Topology Visualization — see how nodes connect.
Gateways (Unified) — supports nodes acting as gateways for relay and remote access
However, as networks expand or requirements evolve, users may face restrictions in the Community Edition.
What is Netmaker Professional Edition?
The Professional Editions (available as SaaS or On-Prem) take networking to the next level by adding enterprise-grade features, scalability, and management tools. It’s built for organizations needing enhanced performance, control, and advanced functionality.
Sophisticated Features:
Auto-Relays (formerly Failovers) – automatic traffic rerouting for better reliability
Gateway High Availability – Automatically selects the optimal gateway
Advanced ACLs – fine-grained traffic control
Desktop & Mobile App – simplified end-user onboarding
Posture Checks – enforce security requirements before access
Network Traffic Metrics – visibility into performance and connectivity
Network Traffic Logging – auditing and troubleshooting support
User Management (non-admin users) – multiple users and roles
IDP & OAuth Integration – SSO with external identity providers
White Labeling – custom branding
Tag Management – organize nodes and simplify policies
Whether you choose SaaS for ease of use or On-Prem for complete control, the Professional Editions deliver unmatched versatility.
When to Choose Community Edition
Choose the Community Edition if:
You’re a small team or developer experimenting with VPNs.
You need a basic setup without additional costs.
Open-source flexibility and simplicity suit your requirements.
When to Choose Professional Editions
Opt for the Professional Editions if:
You require advanced features.
You want seamless scalability and reliability.
You manage larger teams needing advanced user control.
You prefer minimal maintenance (SaaS) or complete control (On-Prem).
Conclusion
Netmaker’s Community and Professional Editions cater to different use cases, ensuring a solution for everyone. Whether you need a simple, open-source platform or an advanced, enterprise-grade solution, Netmaker has you covered.
Ready to upgrade? Explore the Professional Edition today and unlock your network’s full potential.