How to Setup Split Tunneling on Your VPN
In today’s digital world, privacy and speed are equally important. A VPN helps secure your online activities, but sometimes you don’t want all traffic to pass through it. This is where VPN split tunneling setup comes in. By configuring it correctly, you can decide which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.
This guide explains everything you need to know about VPN split tunneling: what it is, why it matters, and how to set it up step by step.
What Is VPN Split Tunneling?
VPN split tunneling is a feature that allows you to control how your internet traffic flows. Normally, all data passes through your VPN. With split tunneling, you can choose specific apps or websites to bypass the VPN while keeping others protected.
For example:
- Stream Netflix on local servers while your banking apps stay secure under the VPN.
- Send work emails through the VPN but let your gaming traffic connect directly for faster speeds.
This flexibility makes split tunneling especially valuable for users who need both privacy and performance.
Why Use VPN Split Tunneling?
Split tunneling isn’t just a fancy setting—it solves real problems:
Improve Internet Speed
Direct traffic avoids VPN encryption overhead, improving performance for activities like gaming or video calls.
Save Bandwidth
By excluding non-essential apps from VPN routing, you conserve VPN bandwidth.
Access Local Services
Sometimes VPNs block local content. Split tunneling lets you use local apps (like banking or shopping) without disconnecting the VPN.
Balance Security and Convenience
You control which activities need encryption and which don’t.
Types of VPN Split Tunneling
Before setting up, it’s important to know the two main approaches:
Application-Based Split Tunneling
You select specific apps that either use or bypass the VPN. For example, your browser might use VPN while Spotify doesn’t.
URL or Website-Based Split Tunneling
You define specific websites to exclude or include in the VPN connection.
Inverse Split Tunneling
Instead of choosing apps to bypass VPN, you choose only the apps that must use VPN. This is great for saving resources.
How to Setup VPN Split Tunneling
Now, let’s walk through the VPN split tunneling setup process on different platforms.
Choose a VPN That Supports Split Tunneling
Not all VPNs provide this feature. Leading VPN providers include split tunneling options in their desktop and mobile apps.
Install and Open Your VPN App
Make sure you have the latest version installed, as split tunneling is usually available in updated apps.
Enable Split Tunneling in Settings
- Open your VPN app.
- Navigate to Settings or Preferences.
- Look for Split Tunneling or Bypass VPN option.
Configure Your Preferences
- Select which apps should use the VPN.
- Choose which apps or websites should bypass it.
- Save the changes.
Test the Setup
Run the apps or visit websites to ensure your preferences are working. You can use IP checker tools to confirm.
VPN Split Tunneling Setup on Different Devices
Windows PC
- Open VPN app.
- Go to Settings > Split Tunneling.
- Add or remove apps as needed.
macOS
Some VPNs don’t support split tunneling on Mac directly. Check if your VPN provider offers an alternative method like browser extensions.
Android
- Go to VPN Settings.
- Enable Allow only selected apps to use VPN.
- Add apps accordingly.
iOS
Due to Apple’s restrictions, split tunneling is limited. Some VPN providers offer workarounds using per-app VPN configurations.
Best Practices for VPN Split Tunneling Setup
- Always route sensitive apps (banking, work emails) through the VPN.
- Exclude only apps where speed matters more than privacy.
- Regularly review your split tunneling list to avoid leaks.
Common Issues and Fixes
VPN Connection Drops
If apps aren’t working as expected, disable split tunneling temporarily and reconnect.
Inconsistent Speeds
Try excluding bandwidth-heavy apps like streaming services from the VPN.
Geo-Restrictions Still Apply
Some websites may still detect VPN use. Adjust your split tunneling rules or switch servers.
Real-Life Example of VPN Split Tunneling
Imagine you’re working remotely in Dubai. You want your email and company tools secured through the VPN, but you also need fast access to local streaming. With VPN split tunneling setup, you configure your VPN to protect business apps while bypassing it for streaming. This ensures privacy without sacrificing speed.
If you’re looking for reliable internet solutions, Dhanote Internet Services offers stable connectivity to complement your VPN needs.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of VPN split tunneling?
It allows you to control which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.
Is VPN split tunneling safe?
Yes, as long as you keep sensitive apps under the VPN. However, excluded apps won’t benefit from encryption.
Does split tunneling improve speed?
Yes. By bypassing the VPN for certain apps, you reduce encryption overhead and gain faster speeds.
Can I use split tunneling on all devices?
Not all devices support it. Windows and Android offer better support than macOS and iOS.
Do all VPNs offer split tunneling?
No. You must choose a VPN provider that specifically includes this feature.
Setting up split tunneling on your VPN gives you more control over your internet traffic. You can enjoy faster speeds, access local services, and still keep your sensitive data safe.
