Split Tunneling Explained: Control Which Apps Use VPN

What Is Split Tunneling?

Split tunneling is a VPN feature that lets you choose which apps or websites use your VPN connection and which ones don't. Instead of sending all your internet traffic through the VPN tunnel, you can pick and choose. Some apps go through the VPN while others connect directly to the internet.

Think of it like having two separate internet highways. One route goes through your VPN (encrypted and private), while the other connects normally (faster but less private). You decide which apps take which road.

Why Would You Want Split Tunneling?

Split tunneling has several practical benefits. First, it improves speed. VPNs can slow down your connection because data travels through extra servers. By letting some apps bypass the VPN, you keep them fast.

Second, some websites block VPN users. If you're watching videos on a streaming service that doesn't allow VPNs, you can set that app to skip the VPN tunnel while keeping other apps protected.

Third, it's useful for work. You might need to access company systems that require a direct connection while keeping your personal browsing private through the VPN.

How Does Split Tunneling Work?

When you enable split tunneling in your VPN app, you'll see a list of installed applications. You simply select which ones should use the VPN and which should connect normally. Popular VPN services like NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost all offer this feature, though availability varies by plan.

For example, you might route your web browser through the VPN for privacy but allow a video streaming app to connect directly for better speed. It's that simple.

Split Tunneling and Online Tools

If you use online video tools like SaveClip for compressing videos or converting video formats, split tunneling is helpful. You can keep these tools unencrypted for faster uploads and downloads while protecting your email and banking apps with the VPN. This gives you the best of both worlds—speed for your media work and security for sensitive activities.

Is Split Tunneling Secure?

Yes, split tunneling is safe when used properly. The apps you route through the VPN get full encryption and privacy protection. The apps that bypass the VPN use your normal internet connection, so they work as they normally would. You're simply choosing which apps get VPN protection.

Which VPN Services Offer This?

Most premium VPN providers include split tunneling. NordVPN calls it "Split Tunneling," Surfshark uses "Bypasser," and ExpressVPN offers "Split Tunneling" on certain apps. CyberGhost also provides this feature. We recommend choosing a VPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test split tunneling risk-free before committing.

Getting Started

To use split tunneling, download a VPN app that supports it, turn on the feature in settings, and select which apps should bypass the tunnel. It typically takes less than a minute to set up.