What is dynamic split tunneling?

Dynamic split tunneling is a technique that increases functionality in split tunneling by setting it up for Domain Name System. This somehow automates choosing the URLs whose traffic remains open or goes through the tunnel.

Will split tunneling add latency?

No. When you use split-tunneling to bypass certain apps or websites, you get faster connectivity as the traffic involves no encryption, hence, no ping or latency. However, in the case of apps restricted to using VPN, you might experience some latency due to the underlying encryption. Yet, if you use a robust VPN service provider, you won't face any lags.

Is split tunneling safe?

Technically, it isn't. While split tunneling doesn't cause any IP leaks, the two-way data transmission of your internet traffic may compromise your privacy. Not only does this feature remains potentially vulnerable to malicious interception, but it also risks you to VPN detection. So, the level of safety while using this feature mainly depends on your intended use. If you merely use split tunneling for streaming geo-blocked content, it's pretty safe to use. However, using split tunneling may be risky if you intend to use a VPN to protect your online identity.

Is it safe to use split tunneling on a free VPN?

Free VPNs already pose lots of security risks to your online privacy. Many free VPN service providers aren't secure enough to hide you online. Also, you won't find the split tunneling feature available with most free VPNs. Coupling this vulnerability with split tunneling would only expose you to online threats. Therefore, if you intend to use split tunneling, you should ideally opt for a robust premium VPN service like the ones recommended above.

How to test split tunneling?

After changing your VPN split tunneling, visit the websites or apps you've specified. For example, check your IP address if you have selected your browser to pass through the VPN tunnel. It should show the location and IP address assigned by your VPN server. You can also visit any website otherwise censored in your region. If you can access it, your split tunneling is working fine.

How to stop split tunneling?

Turning off split tunneling works the same way as enabling it. Go to your VPN app's settings, find the split tunneling feature, and toggle it off.

Can VPN split tunneling work on a single site?

Technically yes; practically, it depends on your service provider. For example, some VPN services, such as Surfshark, allow split tunneling at the website or IP level (called "Whitelister"). Whereas NordVPN only supports split tunneling for apps and not for websites or IP addresses.

Are there any specific VPN protocols to support tunneling?

No. Every VPN protocol supports split tunneling, so there are no limitations. Nonetheless, make sure to use secure VPN protocols only (such as OpenVPN) for better privacy.

Do iOS devices support split tunneling?

Unfortunately, split tunneling isn't available on iOS devices with consumer VPN services. Apple calls this feature 'per app VPN,' but it is only available on apps managed with a mobile device management (MDM) solution. Companies use MDM solutions to manage and control employee devices. So, you need to install MDM software to use a VPN split tunneling on iOS.

Is split tunneling available on macOS 11 (Big Sur)?

Like iOS, macOS 11 does not support split tunneling. A recent operating system update removed split tunneling, disenfranchising many VPN providers. Fortunately, some VPNs, like Private Internet Access (PIA) and Hide.me have updated their apps to support split tunneling on macOS 11.

Is split tunneling necessary to use?

You should avoid split tunneling if privacy is your top priority. The risks outweigh the benefits since you will simultaneously use an open and VPN-secure network. However, if anonymity isn't your primary concern, split tunneling will help you unblock geo-restricted content and access your banking app simultaneously.

What is VPN Split Tunneling? Complete Guide

Sneak peek at Split Tunneling

Most VPNs offer a dedicated “Split Tunneling” feature that allows users to access local and foreign content simultaneously. It divides the internet traffic into two main streams. One moves through your regular ISP route, while the other passes via VPN connection with encryption and spoofed IP. You can easily control the data you want to send either unencrypted or under the VPN protective shield. In short, split tunneling protects the user’s sensitive data without interfering much with the system’s functionality.

Amidst the growing content censorship and geo-restrictions, VPN services have gained significant popularity among internet users. However, changing online locations also means that the users should surrender their access to local content, something infeasible for many. That’s where split tunneling helps VPN users manage their browsing requirements.

Split tunneling is a dedicated feature that allows your VPN to divide your internet traffic into two streams. One of these streams regularly goes through your ISP, and the other passes through the VPN with full encryption and IP masking. That’s how it lets you browse content from other regions without losing access to the local stuff.

For instance, if there are any specific nodes within your local network that you won’t be able to access from an external server, you need to keep your local traffic open and your IP looking like your actual physical IP. At this point, split tunneling lets you have some of your traffic privates at the same time while saving you a little bandwidth.

In most cases, your VPN’s apps or software will allow you to choose the applications on your device that should send their traffic through the VPN or your regular connection.

But do you need split tunneling for your traffic? Is there any risk involved in this? Which VPN vendors will let you do it?