Getting connected

Family and friends can request access to our members' services. Start with a family account, then connect your device to the private network with Tailscale.

Two separate sign-ins: Tailscale gives your device network access. Your family account signs you in to the apps; connecting Tailscale does not sign you in to them.

1. Request an account on the family page. Use the "Request an account" form with your first name and email address. Already have a family account? Keep it and skip to the network setup.
2. Wait for the approval email. Alex reviews requests, so approval is not instant. The email will include a link to finish setting up your account.
3. Set your password using that email's link. Keep the sign-in username shown in the email; some apps ask for your email address instead.
4. Accept the separate Tailscale invitation. For private-network access, look for an email from Tailscale and follow its invite link. Sign in to Tailscale, or create a Tailscale account, when prompted. This email may arrive separately from your account approval.
5. Install Tailscale and turn it on. Get the app from the App Store, Play Store, or tailscale.com/download. Sign in with the same Tailscale account you used to accept the invite, allow the VPN connection if asked, and check that it shows Connected. Repeat the app setup on each device you want to use.
6. Open the members' page at remote.bironfamily.net and choose a service. When an app asks you to sign in, use your family-account details, not your Tailscale login.

If you're stuck

Missing an email? Check spam first. Approval and network invites are separate steps and may take time. If you're approved but still need a Tailscale invite, ask Alex. An account approved for public apps only does not include a network invite.

Members' page won't load? Check that Tailscale is on and that you accepted the invite with the same Tailscale account used in the app. Keep it connected while using private services.

The app loads but won't accept your password? That's an app sign-in issue, not a network connection issue. Use the family username or email specified in your approval email and the password you set. Ask Alex if you still can't get in.