Sometimes, you need both protection and high performance delivery during specific situations.
Split tunneling provides the solution for such situations. A VPN gives you privacy and protection, although encryption does not need to be applied to every online activity.
The split tunneling function, however, lets users decide which programs and websites route through their VPN, whereas the others maintain a direct connection (without routing through a VPN).
The split tunneling function allows you to combine speed with security because it lets you select which apps and websites use the VPN connection, while keeping other traffic direct and fast.
Split tunneling represents one of the most useful capabilities, because it introduces added flexibility to your VPN experience.
But when should you use it? Let’s break it down so you can get the best of both worlds!
What Is Split Tunneling and How Does It Work?
With split tunneling, you gain the ability to determine whether applications and websites should connect through the encrypted VPN or exit it for direct internet access.
When you enable split tunneling, your VPN traffic goes through a secure server, but you can select which data streams through an unencrypted connection.
The feature allows users to improve speed and accessibility through split connections while maintaining full security on critical points.
In layman’s terms? You get to preemptively choose which websites or apps go through the VPN, and which ones go through your usual, direct connection.
- Fun Fact: Some VPNs even let you split tunnel based on websites, meaning you can shop locally while keeping others browsing private. It’s like having the best of both worlds!
Potential Risks and Downsides
A split tunneling setup provides many benefits, but users may encounter risks when they enable this function.
Split tunneling increases your connection control, but you need to be aware of the potential security risks.
Less Security for Certain Traffic
When VPN protection is disabled for specific traffic, that data becomes exposed to both your internet provider and potential cyber threats.
But choosing to keep everything encrypted is a must whenever you handle sensitive data like banking information and private messages through your internet connections.
Potential Data Leaks
However, split tunneling setups may contain problems that users need to watch out for.
The improper setup of applications can lead to VPN data leaks, which your system does not notify you about.
Connections made on public wireless networks become susceptible to hackers, because they remain unprotected against threats.
How to Set Up and Use Split Tunneling on Your VPN
The use of split tunneling functions through most VPN services is fairly simple for most users.
Users can easily customize their VPN connection through a few simple clicks when most VPN services include this feature. Here’s how to get started.
1. Find the Split Tunneling Option
Access your VPN application to locate the split tunneling feature inside it.
The split tunneling configuration is usually located within the settings that are typically grouped under “Advanced” or “Network.”
- Pro Tip: Always update your VPN to access the latest features and security improvements.
2. Choose Which Apps or Websites to Include/Exclude
After activating split tunneling, your VPN system presents the ability to choose applications and websites that will avoid VPN encryption.
You can either:
- Route everything through the VPN, except selected apps;
- Use the VPN only for specific apps, while the rest stay on a direct connection.
3. Test Your Connection
Verify that split tunneling operates properly after its configuration.
Open an excluded app or website to confirm a direct connection while the encrypted traffic remains active for the rest of your devices.
- Pro Tip: If a website blocks VPNs, try excluding just your browser instead of disabling the VPN completely.
Conclusion
Split tunneling serves as a VPN functionality that lets users choose which applications and websites will operate through the VPN connection.
Split tunneling enables users to choose which applications and websites will operate through the VPN to achieve fast streaming or gaming while accessing local content.
The feature delivers speed and flexibility, but you should use it sensibly since some activities require maximum security.
To achieve maximum security, you should keep all your internet traffic under encryption.
Split tunneling provides the best combination of protection and performance levels for VPN users.
Experience the enhanced VPN experience by testing this solution to find out its benefits!
