Split Tunneling: The Ultimate Guide

By VPN Advice Team | Updated Feb 18, 2026

Traditionally, when you turn on a VPN, all traffic from your device goes through the encrypted tunnel. This is secure, but sometimes inconvenient. What if you want to watch US Netflix (via VPN) but order food from a local delivery app (which needs your real local IP)?

Enter Split Tunneling.

What is Split Tunneling?

Split Tunneling lets you divide your internet traffic into two streams:

1. VPN Traffic: Selected apps go through the encrypted VPN server.
2. Direct Traffic: Other apps bypass the VPN and connect directly to the internet.

Best Use Cases

• Local Access: Access local network printers or LAN devices while browsing privately.
• Speed: Route heavy, non-sensitive traffic (like game updates) through your faster direct connection, while encrypting your browsing.
• Banking: Some banking apps block VPN IPs. You can exclude your banking app from the VPN to avoid these blocks.

How to Set It Up

Most top VPNs (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark) have this in their "Settings" menu.

1. Go to Settings > Split Tunneling.
2. Check "Manage connection per app".
3. Choose "Only allow selected apps to use VPN" OR "Do not allow selected apps to use VPN".
4. Select the apps (e.g., Chrome, Spotify, Steam) and save.

Conclusion

Split Tunneling gives you the best of both worlds: Security where you need it, and local speed where you don't.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Split Tunneling reduce security?

Only for the apps you exclude from the VPN. Apps routed through the VPN remain fully encrypted. It is a trade-off between convenience and security.

Can I use Split Tunneling on iPhone?

It is difficult on iOS due to Apple's strict operating system restrictions. Most VPNs offer Split Tunneling primarily on Android and Windows.