defguard vs mullvadvpn-app
VPN access management compared with a VPN client
defguard is a self-hosted platform for managing WireGuard access, identity, and MFA. mullvadvpn-app is a client for Mullvad’s VPN service; it focuses on connecting devices and protecting their traffic rather than managing a VPN service or user access.
defguard: Manage Secure VPN and Identity Access
Defguard is a self-hosted platform for managing WireGuard VPN access, identity, and multi-factor authentication. It suits organizations that want centralized control over network access and authentication inside their own infrastructure.
mullvadvpn-app: Mullvad VPN Client for Desktop and Mobile
Mullvad VPN’s Rust-based client app pairs a Rust daemon with an Electron desktop GUI, alongside Android and iOS frontends. It manages privacy-focused VPN connections across desktop and mobile platforms.
| defguard | mullvadvpn-app | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Rust | Rust |
| License | NOASSERTION | GPL-3.0 |
| Stars | 2.9k | 7.7k |
| Forks | 119 | 554 |
| Last analyzed | Oct 3, 2026 | Oct 22, 2026 |
Key differences
- defguard combines VPN management with identity services, MFA, and user or group access rules; mullvadvpn-app establishes and manages VPN tunnels for Mullvad subscribers.
- defguard is designed to run within an organization’s infrastructure, while mullvadvpn-app connects devices to Mullvad’s service.
- defguard supports LDAP/AD synchronization and internal or external OIDC providers; mullvadvpn-app provides desktop and mobile apps for its VPN service.
- defguard lists Rust as its language and reports its license as NOASSERTION, with an AGPL open-source core and separate Enterprise License; mullvadvpn-app lists Rust and uses GPL-3.0, with a separate App Store EULA applying to its distributed iOS app.
- defguard targets IT and security teams managing organizational access; mullvadvpn-app targets Mullvad subscribers seeking VPN clients for desktop or mobile.
Choose defguard if you…
- need to manage employee VPN access, identity, and MFA in one self-hosted platform.
- want user- or group-based rules across VPN locations.
- need LDAP/AD synchronization or OIDC identity-provider options alongside VPN management.
Choose mullvadvpn-app if you…
- use Mullvad’s VPN service and need a client for desktop or mobile.
- want tunnel options and privacy-oriented network protections for your device.
- want to inspect, build, or assess the VPN client source.
Compare the numbers side by side, or add more projects
This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.