What Is Split Tunneling in a VPN?
Split tunneling is a VPN feature that allows you to choose which internet traffic goes through the VPN and which goes through your regular internet connection.
This means you can:
- Stream local content while securing your banking app
- Access foreign websites without slowing down other apps
- Use your local network for printers and devices while browsing securely elsewhere
🚀 NordVPN gives you full control with powerful split tunneling tools.
🎯 Why Would You Use Split Tunneling?
Without split tunneling, all traffic goes through the VPN. That can be slower for some apps — and unnecessary for trusted local services.
Split tunneling gives you flexibility:
| Use Case | How Split Tunneling Helps |
|---|---|
| Banking apps | Route them outside VPN to avoid location-based blocks |
| Local streaming (DStv, BBC iPlayer) | Keep them on your regular connection for speed |
| International streaming | Run only your browser or Netflix app through the VPN |
| Work tools or databases | Keep sensitive work connections secure, let everything else run locally |
| Gaming | Use VPN for your browser, not the game (reduces lag) |
💡 It’s about customizing your internet to your life.
🔧 Try NordVPN and take control with split tunneling today.
🛠️ How Does Split Tunneling Work?
Split tunneling works by telling your device or VPN client which traffic to encrypt and route through the VPN — and which to send directly over the internet.
There are two types:
- App-based split tunneling
Only selected apps (e.g., Chrome, Netflix, Spotify) use the VPN. - Inverse split tunneling
Everything uses the VPN except apps you exclude.
With NordVPN’s split tunneling, you can:
- Include or exclude specific apps
- Switch settings easily from their desktop or Android apps
- Fine-tune your privacy setup without sacrificing speed or access
🔐 Get NordVPN with advanced split tunneling control.
📱 Which Devices Support Split Tunneling?
NordVPN currently offers split tunneling on:
- Windows
- Android
- Browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox)
They’re working on rolling out this feature to more platforms, but for now, iOS and macOS do not support split tunneling due to operating system restrictions.
👉 Download NordVPN for your preferred device here.
🔒 Why Use NordVPN for Split Tunneling?
Not all VPNs get split tunneling right — some are buggy, others don’t allow fine-tuned control.
NordVPN offers:
- ✅ A sleek, easy-to-use interface
- ⚙️ Precision control over included/excluded apps
- 🔐 Secure encryption even for split traffic
- 💬 24/7 support if you need setup help
- ⚡ Fast servers to prevent lag on tunneled traffic
Split tunneling is a feature of convenience — but with NordVPN, you don’t sacrifice security or speed to get it.
🎯 Enjoy flexible, secure browsing with NordVPN’s split tunneling.
Final Thoughts
Split tunneling lets you take charge of your online privacy without going all-in on VPN routing. Whether you’re working, streaming, or gaming — it’s about smart control.
And with NordVPN, you get that control wrapped in ironclad privacy and performance.
💡 Choose what to protect — and what to speed up.
👉 Get NordVPN now and unlock split tunneling + full privacy.