As VPN users seek faster and more efficient online experiences, split tunneling emerges as a clever solution to issues like slow connections when accessing banking apps, playing online games, or streaming high-definition videos. This feature allows you to maintain your VPN connection while selectively bypassing it for certain applications.
Understanding Split Tunneling
Split tunneling provides users with the ability to decide which applications or websites can bypass the encrypted VPN connection while allowing others to remain protected. This means you can enjoy the security of a VPN without sacrificing access to local applications or services.
How Split Tunneling Works
Technically, split tunneling operates in two main ways: through a whitelist or a blocklist. A whitelist allows users to specify which apps or sites are exceptions to the VPN connection, while a blocklist lets users create a list of applications that must use the encrypted tunnel. Different VPN providers, like Surfshark and IPVanish, opt for the whitelist method, whereas ExpressVPN employs a blocklist. Other providers, such as NordVPN and CyberGhost, offer both options, giving users the flexibility to choose what works best for them.
When to Use Split Tunneling
This feature is particularly beneficial in several scenarios. For instance, it can be helpful when connecting to local devices like printers, smart speakers, or security cameras that do not require encryption. Additionally, it is advantageous for accessing high-security applications, such as banking websites that may block connections from VPN IP addresses.
Moreover, split tunneling is useful for activities that demand high bandwidth, such as online gaming, video calls, or streaming content in 4K. These tasks may not perform optimally if routed through a VPN with slower internet speeds. Lastly, it is beneficial for services reliant on geolocation data, like weather apps or ride-sharing platforms.
Potential Risks of Split Tunneling
Despite its advantages, split tunneling does come with risks. When bypassing the VPN, your original IP address and other identifying data may be exposed to unencrypted applications or websites. This compromises the privacy protections that a VPN typically offers, including blocking online trackers and intrusive ads.
As noted, utilizing split tunneling can essentially turn off your VPN protection for specific apps or services, potentially leaving you vulnerable. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid using this feature on public Wi-Fi networks or with untrustworthy ISPs. While some VPN providers allow split tunneling while keeping DNS hidden, there is still a risk of DNS leaks. Users are encouraged to test for DNS leaks using tools like BrowserLeaks or IPLeak to ensure their security is intact.
VPN Providers That Support Split Tunneling
Not all VPN providers offer split tunneling, and its availability varies significantly. Here are some major providers that support this feature:
- Surfshark: Their Bypasser tool allows applications to access your home network without the VPN, compatible with various operating systems.
- ProtonVPN: This service supports split tunneling across all operating systems, including Linux, although with limited functionality on this platform.
- Norton VPN: Split tunneling has been available on Windows and Android for some time, and as of June 2026, it is also accessible on Mac and iOS devices.
- NordVPN: While it lacks native support for Apple devices, it provides excellent configuration options for Windows and Android users.
- ExpressVPN: This provider offers robust split tunneling features for Windows, Android, and Linux users, and it can also function at the router level.
The introduction of split tunneling empowers VPN users to have greater control over their network traffic. You no longer need to choose between security and convenience, as split tunneling enables both to coexist harmoniously.
Source: https://telset.id/how-to/split-tunneling-vpn-solusi-atasi-lemot-saat-banking-dan-gaming
