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Connecting and Authorizing a New Device with ZeroTier

Connecting and Authorizing a New Device with ZeroTier

1. Purpose

This SOP defines the standard process for installing, connecting, and authorizing a new device on a ZeroTier virtual network to ensure secure and consistent access.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all endpoints (workstations, servers, appliances, and IoT devices) that require access to a ZeroTier-managed network.

3. Prerequisites

Before beginning, ensure the following:

  • You have administrator access to the ZeroTier Central portal

  • You have the Network ID for the target ZeroTier network

  • The device has internet connectivity

  • You have local administrative privileges on the device

4. Responsibilities

  • Technician / Engineer

    • Install the ZeroTier client

    • Join the device to the network

    • Validate connectivity

  • Network Administrator

    • Authorize the device

    • Assign IP and network policies as required

5. Procedure

5.1 Install the ZeroTier Client

  1. Navigate to: https://www.zerotier.com/download/

  2. Download the appropriate client for the operating system:

    • Windows

    • macOS

    • Linux

    • Mobile (iOS / Android)

  3. Install the client using default settings unless otherwise specified.

5.2 Join the ZeroTier Network

  1. Launch the ZeroTier client:

    • Windows/macOS: Open the ZeroTier application or system tray icon

    • Linux: Use the command line

  2. Join the network using the Network ID:

    • GUI:

      • Select Join Network

      • Enter the Network ID

    • Command line (Linux):

      sudo zerotier-cli join <NETWORK_ID>

  3. Confirm the device shows “REQUESTING_CONFIGURATION” or similar status.

5.3 Authorize the Device in ZeroTier Central

  1. Log in to ZeroTier Central: https://my.zerotier.com

  2. Select Networks

  3. Choose the appropriate network

  4. Scroll to the Members section

  5. Locate the new device (identified by Node ID or device name)

  6. Check the Authorized box

  7. (Optional but recommended):

    • Assign a friendly name

    • Assign a static managed IP

    • Apply tags or rules if used in your environment

5.4 Verify Connectivity

  1. On the device, confirm it shows CONNECTED status

  2. Verify the assigned ZeroTier IP address

  3. Test connectivity:

    • Ping another ZeroTier device

    • Access a known internal resource

  4. Confirm traffic flows as expected per network policy

6. Post-Configuration Tasks

  • Document the device:

    • Device name

    • Assigned ZeroTier IP

    • Network ID

    • Date authorized

  • Confirm firewall rules or local security software are not blocking ZeroTier traffic

  • Ensure the ZeroTier service is set to start automatically on boot

7. Troubleshooting

Issue Resolution
Device not appearing in Central Confirm correct Network ID and internet access
Stuck in “REQUESTING_CONFIGURATION” Ensure device is authorized in Central
No connectivity after authorization Check local firewall and ZeroTier network rules
Intermittent connectivity Verify UDP 9993 is allowed outbound

8. Security Notes

  • Only authorize known and approved devices

  • Remove unused or decommissioned devices promptly

  • Use network rules and segmentation where possible

  • Periodically audit authorized members

9. References

New PC installs

List of items to install on ALL PCs leaving this office (New or Refurbished):

  1. ALL firmware and driver updates via Support app by manufacturer of PC
  2. All windows updates 
  3. Acrobat Reader (newest version)
  4. Google Chrome
  5. Monitoring software
  6. Anti-virus

List of items to uninstall:

  1. Anti-virus pre-installed by PC manufacturer
  2. Extraneous application that are either not needed or might cause problems

Settings Changes:

  1. Turn off Search Highlights
  2. Turn off News and Interests
  3. Settings changes:
    1. System>Notifications
      • Uncheck bottom 3 check boxes
    2. System>Multitasking
      • Turn off Show Suggestions in you timeline
    3. Personalization>Start
      • Turn off Recently added apps
      • Turn off Show suggestions occasionally in Start
    4. Apps>Default Apps
      • Make Google Chrome Default for Web browser
      • Click Set defaults for apps
      • Set Adobe Reader as the default for pdf files
    5. Accounts>Sing In options (VERY IIMPORTANT)
      • Turn off Use my sign-in to automatically finish setting up my device after an update or restart
    6. Privacy
      • Turn off Show me suggested content in Settings app
  4. Unpin Explore (app group) and Dell apps from Start
  5. Sign in to Office apps

If the person is already working for the company and are getting a new PC, please verify what programs they currently have installed on their current PC and ask them if they need these specific applications, i.e. Quickbooks, Microsoft Office, WinZip, etc.