What Is VPN Split Tunneling? Here’s Why You Need It In 2025

Imagine you’re traveling and want to watch your favorite local streaming service, but you also need to access sensitive business data securely. Normally, using a VPN for both tasks might slow down your connection. This is where split tunneling in VPN comes in.

VPN split tunneling allows you to route some of your traffic through a secure, encrypted VPN connection while other traffic, like streaming content, goes directly to the internet without slowing down.

This way, you can enjoy faster speeds for non-sensitive tasks while keeping your important data secure.

Split Tunneling VPN: Maximize Your Connection, Minimize the Limits!

➤ VPN Split Tunneling: What’s the Deal?

➤ How Split Tunneling VPN Actually Works

➤ Why Use Split Tunneling VPN? Perks & Pitfalls

➤ Top VPNs with Split Tunneling: Best Picks

What Is VPN Split Tunneling?

VPN split tunneling is a feature that allows users to decide which internet traffic goes through the VPN’s encrypted tunnel and which traffic connects directly to the internet.

This helps maintain a balance between security and performance, ensuring sensitive data stays protected while optimizing speed for less critical activities.

Basic Definition

VPN split tunneling is explained simply: it allows you to choose which data goes through the VPN and which doesn’t.

Some traffic, like work-related apps or banking, is routed securely through the VPN, while other traffic, like streaming or browsing, can go directly to the internet.

How It Differs from Full Tunneling

In a full-tunnel VPN setup, all internet traffic is routed through the VPN. While this maximizes security, it can also slow down your connection, as every request passes through the VPN server.

Split tunneling in VPN, on the other hand, selectively routes traffic, only certain traffic is sent through the VPN, while the rest connects directly to the internet.

This approach reduces bandwidth load and improves speed without compromising essential security.

How Does Split Tunneling VPN Work?

Split tunneling in VPN lets users decide which internet traffic is encrypted through the VPN and which traffic connects directly to the internet.

This setup helps optimize privacy and performance, ensuring sensitive data remains protected while non-essential traffic flows without VPN-related slowdowns.

Core Mechanism

A VPN client or router determines how traffic is routed by applying specific rules:

• Traffic marked for VPN encryption is sent through the secure split tunneling VPN tunnel, protecting sensitive activities like banking or remote work.
• Traffic bypassing the VPN split tunneling setup connects directly to the internet, improving speed and reducing unnecessary encryption overhead.

By filtering traffic this way, users can prioritize security where needed without compromising performance for other tasks.

Different Types of VPN Split Tunneling

Split tunneling VPNs come in different variations, each offering unique ways to route traffic.

App-Based Split Tunneling

It allows users to select specific applications that will use the split tunneling VPN while others connect directly to the internet.

For example, banking and email apps can be routed through the VPN for encryption, while video streaming or gaming apps remain unaffected by VPN-related slowdowns.

This feature is available in Split Tunneling VPN Android and Nord VPN Split Tunneling iOS.

URL/IP-Based Split Tunneling

It routes traffic based on specific websites or IP addresses. This method is useful for cases where certain platforms, such as corporate networks or international services, require VPN protection, while others, like local content streaming, can function without it.

Users of Split tunneling OpenVPN often configure this method for flexible access.

Inverse Split Tunneling

It takes the opposite approach by allowing all traffic to connect directly to the internet, except for selected services that are routed through split tunneling.

This setup is useful for users who only need split tunneling in VPN protection for a few critical applications, ensuring that the rest of their traffic remains unencrypted for optimal speed.

Do you know that split tunneling is perfect for remote workers? You can stay connected to company servers securely while still accessing local web services like YouTube or social media without VPN slowdowns.

Why Use Split Tunneling VPN? Potential Risks and Benefits

VPN split tunneling is a practical feature for users who need to balance security and speed.

By allowing only sensitive data to pass through the split tunneling VPN while other traffic bypasses it, split tunneling in VPN optimizes network performance and ensures a smoother, faster experience.

Common Scenarios

Split tunneling VPN is useful in several situations:

Streaming Local Content

Many streaming services block VPN connections or limit access to region-specific content. With split tunneling in VPN, users can watch local streaming platforms without encryption-based slowdowns while still securing other online activities through the VPN.

This is especially useful for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and Disney+, where access depends on your physical location. To learn more about how VPNs interact with streaming services, visit this streaming VPN guide.

Secure Work Connections

Remote employees often need split tunneling VPN encryption for corporate applications, such as email, cloud storage or internal company portals. Using a VPN for all traffic can slow down performance and create unnecessary restrictions on personal browsing.

With Windows VPN split tunneling and split tunneling OpenVPN, business-related apps remain protected while allowing other activities, such as checking personal emails or using social media, to bypass the VPN for better speed.

Improving Performance

Encrypting all internet traffic through a VPN can sometimes reduce speed due to increased data processing.

VPN split tunneling simply means prioritizing bandwidth; important services stay protected while non-critical activities like casual web browsing, gaming or software updates run at full speed.

This is particularly useful for users with limited bandwidth or slower internet connections.

What Are The Advantages of VPN Split Tunneling?

VPN split tunneling provides several benefits, making it a valuable feature for users who need both security and performance.

By allowing selective routing of internet traffic, it helps optimize speed, accessibility and resource efficiency without compromising data protection where needed.

Improved Internet Speed

Since only selected traffic is encrypted through the VPN, non-sensitive activities such as streaming, gaming or casual browsing experience faster speeds, this prevents unnecessary slowdowns caused by routing all traffic through the split tunneling VPN server.

Reduced Bandwidth Usage

VPN encryption adds data overhead, which can consume more bandwidth. With split tunneling, users can bypass the VPN for non-essential activities, reducing congestion and improving overall performance, especially on networks with limited bandwidth.

Access to Local and Foreign Services Simultaneously

Many websites and apps, such as streaming platforms and banking portals, restrict VPN traffic. With split tunneling in VPN, users can access region-specific services locally while still protecting sensitive traffic through the VPN.

For example, Nord VPN split tunneling iOS allows you to watch local content while keeping work-related data encrypted.

Greater Customization and Flexibility

Users have full control over which apps, websites or services use the VPN. Whether it’s ensuring work applications remain secure or keeping personal browsing outside the VPN, VPNs with split tunneling provide tailored security without unnecessary encryption.

What Are The Disadvantages of Split Tunneling VPN?

While split tunneling offers significant benefits, it also comes with potential VPN split tunneling risks and technical limitations.

Users must configure it carefully to avoid exposing sensitive information to unprotected networks.

Potential Security Risks

By allowing certain traffic to bypass the VPN, split tunneling reduces encryption coverage, which could leave some data vulnerable to cyber threats. If misconfigured, sensitive applications or communications may be unintentionally exposed.

Increased Risk of IP Leaks

If traffic isn’t properly routed, DNS and IP leaks can occur, revealing the user’s real location and identity. This is especially concerning for users who rely on a VPN for anonymity, as certain websites or services may track their actual IP address.

Not Available on All VPNs or Devices

Not every VPN provider offers split tunneling VPN and even among those that do, device compatibility varies. While it’s commonly available on Windows VPN split tunneling and VPN split tunneling VPN Android, it is often limited or unavailable on Nord VPN split tunneling iOS, restricting its usability across all devices.

More Complex Setup

Unlike a standard VPN connection that encrypts all traffic by default, split tunneling requires manual configuration.

Users must carefully select which applications or services should be protected, making it more complicated for beginners who may not fully understand the risks of excluding certain traffic.

VPN Split Tunneling vs Full Tunnel: Side-by-Side Breakdown

Each feature is compared by highlighting its advantage and its trade-off.

Do you know that full-tunnel VPNs consume more bandwidth? Since every bit of data is encrypted, streaming or downloading large files may slow down significantly compared to split tunneling.

How To Tell If a VPN Is Split Tunneling

Before setting up split tunneling, it’s essential to check whether your VPN provider includes this feature.

Not all VPNs with split tunneling offer it and verifying its availability ensures you can route traffic efficiently while maintaining security.

Feature Checklist

To determine if a VPN supports split tunneling, look for these terms in the VPN’s settings or documentation:

✔ “Split Tunnel” Allows users to decide which traffic goes through the split tunneling VPN.
✔ “App Whitelisting” Lets you exclude specific apps from using the VPN.
✔ “Selective Routing” Enables traffic customization based on apps, websites or IP addresses.

These options indicate that the VPN offers flexible traffic control for a more customized experience.

Testing & Verification

Once split tunneling is enabled, you can verify that it’s working correctly:

• Check Your IP Address: Use an online tool like “What Is My IP” to confirm whether specific traffic is routed through the VPN or your local connection.
• Perform a DNS Leak Test: Websites like DNSLeakTest.com can help determine if certain traffic is bypassing the VPN as intended. This is crucial for users configuring Split tunneling OpenVPN or Nord VPN split tunneling iOS.
• Test Streaming or Work Apps: Try accessing a local streaming service or corporate network while keeping the VPN active for other tasks. If using Windows VPN split tunneling or VPN split tunneling VPN Android, ensure non-VPN traffic behaves as expected.

For those using free VPN split tunneling, testing is even more critical, as some services may not fully support selective routing.

By checking for these features and running tests, you can ensure your VPN supports split tunneling and is configured correctly for optimal performance and security.

Setting Up Split Tunneling VPN

Configuring split tunneling allows you to control which traffic goes through the VPN tunnel and which bypasses it for better speed and performance.

While the exact steps may vary based on your device or network, the goal remains the same, to ensure certain apps or websites remain encrypted while others connect directly to the internet.

How To Enable Split Tunneling VPN in Windows 10

To enable Windows VPN split tunneling, follow these steps:

• Open your VPN client and navigate to the settings menu.
• Look for an option labeled “Split Tunneling,” “App Whitelisting,” or “Selective Routing.”
• Enable the feature, then choose whether to route only specific apps through the VPN or allow certain apps or websites to bypass the VPN.
• Save your changes and restart the VPN connection to apply the settings.

Once configured, test the feature by running an IP or DNS leak test to verify that traffic is being routed correctly.

How to securely set up VPN split tunneling with VPN.com?

For businesses and enterprise networks, securing split tunneling requires additional safeguards:

• Router-Level Configuration: Use a firewall or router to define traffic rules, ensuring critical data remains encrypted. This is particularly useful for users of Split tunneling OpenVPN and VPN split tunneling VPN Android.
• Enterprise VPN Solutions: Services like vpn.com offer centralized VPN split tunneling explained management for multiple devices, maintaining consistency across the network.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Regularly test and review network settings to ensure no sensitive data unintentionally bypasses the best VPN with split tunneling.

With proper setup and security checks, split tunneling can offer a balance between privacy, speed and accessibility while minimizing security risks.

Top VPNs with Split Tunneling

Choosing the best VPN with split tunneling is essential for users who need a balance between security, performance and flexibility.

Some VPNs with split tunneling offer advanced traffic-routing options, ensuring that sensitive data stays encrypted while non-sensitive activities remain unaffected by VPN slowdowns.

Key Criteria

When choosing a split tunneling solution, several critical factors determine its effectiveness:

→ Reliability: A good split tunneling VPN should maintain a stable connection with minimal downtime. Frequent disconnections can disrupt VPN-protected apps and expose unencrypted data.

→ User-Friendly Interface: The split tunneling feature should be easy to configure, even for users who are new to VPN settings. A well-designed dashboard with clear toggles for managing traffic makes setup more accessible.

→ Strong Security and Encryption: A VPN with split tunneling should use AES-256 encryption, a kill switch feature and DNS leak protection to ensure sensitive data remains secure while routing only selected traffic outside the VPN tunnel.

→ Performance and Speed: VPN split tunneling should allow users to enjoy high speeds for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming, gaming and large downloads without unnecessary slowdowns caused by routing all traffic through the VPN.

→ Device Compatibility: Not all VPNs with split tunneling offer support across all platforms. While Windows VPN split tunneling and VPN split tunneling VPN Android are widely available, split tunneling NordVPN and macOS users may have limited options. Checking device compatibility before subscribing is very important.

Best VPNs With Split Tunneling

Several VPN providers excel in offering split tunneling VPNs with strong security, fast performance and flexible customization.

Here are the top choices:

NordVPN: Best for Security & Reliability

Platforms: Windows Android
Encryption & Protocols: AES-256, OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard-based)

NordVPN split tunneling offers one of the most secure split tunneling in VPN implementations, allowing users to selectively route apps outside the VPN while maintaining strong encryption for sensitive activities.

Its NordLynx protocol provides exceptional speed, making it an excellent choice for those who need both security and performance.

Key Features:

• Split tunneling for selected apps on Windows and Android
• CyberSec feature to block malicious sites and ads
• Double VPN and Onion Over VPN for added security
• No-logs policy and independently audited privacy protections

Nord VPN split tunneling iOS is ideal for users who prioritize security while needing the flexibility to bypass VPN protection for certain applications.

ExpressVPN: Best for Speed & Streaming

Platforms: Windows, Mac Android
Encryption & Protocols: AES-256, OpenVPN, Lightway

Split tunneling ExpressVPN is known for its high-speed performance and ease of use, making it a top choice for users who need secure yet fast connections.

Its split tunneling VPN feature lets users exclude apps from VPN routing, allowing them to stream region-locked content or use local services without dropping VPN protection on critical activities.

Key Features:

• Works on multiple platforms, including Mac (which many VPNs don’t support for split tunneling)
• Lightway protocol for improved speed and efficiency
• ExpressVPN has strong encryption and TrustedServer technology for privacy protection
• No-logs policy and private DNS on all servers

ExpressVPN is a great choice for users who frequently stream content, play online games or require high-speed browsing while keeping select data encrypted.

CyberGhost: Best for Ease of Use & Customization

Platforms: Windows Android
Encryption & Protocols: AES-256, OpenVPN, WireGuard

CyberGhost is well-known for its beginner-friendly interface and customizable split tunneling settings. It allows users to route apps or websites outside the VPN, making it perfect for those who need flexibility in managing their traffic.

Key Features:

• Easy-to-use split tunneling settings for beginners
• Optimized servers for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu
• Configurable app and URL-based split tunneling
• Privacy-focused with a strict no-logs policy

VPN split tunneling VPN Android users will find CyberGhost’s split tunneling settings intuitive, making it an ideal option for those who want a simple yet effective split tunneling VPN setup with the ability to customize traffic routing without complex configurations.

Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Device Support

Platforms: Windows Android
Encryption & Protocols: AES-256, OpenVPN, WireGuard

Surfshark is an affordable VPN that offers a split tunneling feature called “Bypasser.” This feature allows users to exclude specific apps and websites from the VPN tunnel, ensuring better speeds for local content while keeping sensitive data encrypted.

Key Features:

• “Bypasser” for app and website exclusions
• Unlimited simultaneous connections, making it great for families
• WireGuard protocol for faster performance
• MultiHop (Double VPN) for added security

Surfshark is ideal for users who need split tunneling on multiple devices at an affordable price while still benefiting from strong security and privacy protections.

ProtonVPN: Best for Privacy-Focused Users

Platforms: Windows, Linux Android
Encryption & Protocols: AES-256, OpenVPN, WireGuard

Proton VPN split tunneling is known for its strong privacy focus, offering a no-logs policy and Swiss-based jurisdiction.

ProtonVPN supports split tunneling on Windows and Android, allowing users to bypass VPN protection for specific apps or websites while keeping critical activities encrypted.

Key Features:

• Strong focus on privacy and security
• Split tunneling for selected apps and websites
• Secure Core feature (multi-hop VPN routing)
• Support for Tor over VPN

For those who prioritize privacy, Proton VPN split tunneling offers one of the most secure split tunneling VPN experiences, ensuring that essential data remains protected while allowing select traffic to bypass the VPN for speed optimization.

Split Tunneling In VPNs: FAQs

The Bottom Line

VPN split tunneling allows users to balance their privacy needs with local performance. By routing sensitive traffic through a VPN and bypassing it for non-sensitive traffic, users can enjoy faster speeds for everyday tasks while still protecting their important data.

Take the time to evaluate your online activities and select a VPN with split tunneling that offers flexible routing options. Always configure your VPN settings carefully to ensure both security and performance are optimized.

With the right VPN split tunneling setup, you can work securely and browse freely with peace of mind.