Best and easiest way to safely configure remote access?

I know Tailscale is very popular, but I'm hesitant to rely on something I need my Google Account for to access it. Also third party reliance is something I'm unsure about.

I have no real knowledge of networking/routing, so I really need someone bing simple.

I did buy my own domain, but I haven't really done anything with it yet. So far nothing is pointing to my server.

Are there any best practices? Good guides? What are y'all using? Is everyone just fine with Tailscale? Let me know!