Split Tunneling
Learn how split tunneling works, when to use it, and how it can optimize your VPN experience.
What is Split Tunneling?
Split tunneling is a VPN feature that allows you to choose which applications or websites use the encrypted VPN connection and which connect directly to the internet. Instead of routing all traffic through the VPN, split tunneling creates two simultaneous connections: one through the VPN tunnel for selected apps, and one direct connection for everything else.
Use Cases for Split Tunneling
Split tunneling is valuable in several scenarios. You might want to route streaming services through the VPN to access foreign content while keeping local banking apps on your regular connection for better compatibility. Gamers often route only game traffic through the VPN for DDoS protection while keeping voice chat on the direct connection for minimal latency. Remote workers might VPN their work apps while keeping personal browsing separate.
Security Considerations
While split tunneling offers flexibility, it does create potential security considerations. Traffic outside the VPN tunnel isn't encrypted or protected. Your ISP can see activity from non-VPN apps. If you're in a high-risk environment or prioritize maximum security, you may want to route all traffic through the VPN instead of using split tunneling.
How It Works
Enable split tunneling in your VPN settings
Select which apps or services should use the VPN connection
The VPN routes selected traffic through the encrypted tunnel
All other traffic flows directly through your regular internet connection
Key Benefits
- Optimize speeds for local services while protecting privacy for others
- Access local network devices while connected to VPN
- Reduce VPN bandwidth usage for non-sensitive apps
- Improve compatibility with apps that conflict with VPNs
- Balance security needs with performance requirements
Common Myths Debunked
Split tunneling defeats the purpose of a VPN
Split tunneling is a tool for optimization, not a security flaw. When used appropriately, it allows you to protect sensitive traffic while maintaining optimal performance for local or non-sensitive apps.
Split tunneling is complicated to set up
Modern VPN apps make split tunneling simple. EdgeVPN allows you to select apps with a few taps, no technical configuration required.
You can't use local network printers with a VPN
With split tunneling, you can exclude local network traffic from the VPN, allowing access to printers, network drives, and other local devices while maintaining VPN protection for internet traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about split tunneling
It depends. If you want to access foreign streaming content, route streaming apps through the VPN. If you're watching local content and want maximum speed, exclude streaming apps from the VPN.
Yes, split tunneling allows you to exclude local network traffic from the VPN. This lets you access printers, NAS drives, and other local devices while maintaining VPN protection for internet traffic.
Traffic outside the VPN tunnel isn't encrypted, so there is a security trade-off. For maximum security, route all traffic through the VPN. Use split tunneling when you need to balance security with compatibility or performance.
Yes, EdgeVPN supports split tunneling on Android, allowing per-app VPN routing. iOS has more restrictions on split tunneling due to system limitations.
Most mobile VPN apps offer per-app split tunneling. Desktop VPNs may offer more granular control including by-website split tunneling, though this is less common.
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