A split tunnel VPN gives you options. Instead of forcing all your traffic through the VPN, it lets you choose what goes through the encrypted tunnel and what doesn’t.

You can send work apps or private data through the VPN — while letting things like YouTube, Spotify, or local websites use your regular internet connection.

Why people use it:

• Keeps VPN protection for what matters (like banking, work logins, or file sharing).

• Leaves the rest alone, so it’s faster and uses less data.

• Great if you need access to both global and local content at the same time.

Example:

You’re working remotely. You connect your file-sharing app through the VPN for security, but your streaming or Google search stays outside the VPN. Result? Secure where needed, faster everywhere else.

Trade-offs:

• Some traffic stays exposed. If you’re not careful, private info could leak.

• Setup takes a minute. You’ll need to pick which apps go where.

Not always available. Not all VPNs offer this feature, especially on all devices.

Here’s how the two setups compare:

The right choice depends on what you’re doing and what matters most: speed or security.

Use Full Tunnel VPN if:

• You’re on public Wi-Fi and don’t want to risk anything leaking.

• You need maximum privacy for work, banking, or file transfers.

• You want to hide your IP address for every app and website.

Real-world example: You're traveling and connecting to hotel Wi-Fi. With full tunneling, everything — from your email to your news app — is fully protected from anyone watching the network.

Use Split Tunnel VPN if:

• You need to access both secure and local content at the same time.

• You want to stream with your local IP while using a VPN for work.

• You’re trying to reduce VPN load to keep things running fast.

Real-world example: You're working from home and need VPN access for a secure office tool — but you also want to stream Netflix and use your smart printer without issues. Split tunneling lets you do both.

Yes — especially with split tunneling.

When you let part of your traffic skip the VPN, that data is unprotected. It travels over the open internet. That means:

• Hackers or snoops can see it.

• Your ISP can track what you’re doing on non-VPN apps.

• You might bypass company firewalls without meaning to, which can be a risk in corporate settings.

Bottom line: If security is the top concern, go with full tunnel. If you’re managing speed, split tunnel is fine — just don’t route sensitive apps outside the VPN.

Want to Make Sure Your VPN Is Actually Working?

Before choosing between a split tunnel or full tunnel setup, make sure your VPN is doing what it’s supposed to.

You can use our free VPN testing tool to check:

• IP leaks – See if your VPN really hides your IP.

• DNS leaks – Make sure your browsing data isn’t exposed.

• WebRTC leaks – Detect browser-based leaks that can reveal your real location.

• Speed – Find out how your VPN affects performance.

It takes less than a minute. No install. Just run the test, and you’ll know if your connection is solid — or if your VPN is leaking.

Test Your VPN Now

More Tips and Real-World Use Cases

Still not sure which VPN tunnel setup fits your needs? These extra tips and examples can help.

Can You Use Split Tunneling and Full Tunneling Together?

Yes — some VPNs let you mix both modes at the same time.

Here’s how it works: You set full tunnel as the default, so everything is encrypted. Then, you create exceptions for certain apps or websites using split tunneling rules.

Example:

You route your work emails and file transfers through the VPN (full tunnel), but let YouTube or your music player bypass it. This way, you keep important data secure while keeping entertainment fast.

Just remember: not every VPN supports this kind of setup. Look for apps with app-based or rule-based split tunneling options.

Gamers

• Use split tunnel to avoid lag during online play.

• Route gaming traffic directly for speed, while keeping chat apps protected with VPN.

Remote Workers

• Full tunnel is safer — encrypts everything you do on company systems.

• Some companies even require it for compliance and monitoring.

Frequent Travelers

• Full tunnel is a must on public Wi-Fi at airports and cafes.

• But once you’re settled in a hotel, split tunneling can help you access local content without disconnecting from your VPN.

Knowing your role helps pick the right setup — there’s no one-size-fits-all.

What Happens If You Choose the Wrong Mode?

Using the wrong tunnel type can cause real issues — not just slower speeds.

With Full Tunnel:

• You may not be able to use local printers or smart home devices.

• Some apps may break or get blocked because of your foreign IP.

With Split Tunnel:

• You could accidentally expose emails or passwords if you forget to route them through the VPN.

• Your IP and location might leak if your browser or apps are not properly configured.

It’s not just about speed vs. privacy — it's about picking what actually works for your setup.

What to Look for in a VPN with Split/Full Tunneling

Not all VPNs offer good control over tunneling. If you're shopping for one, here’s what to check:

• App-based split tunneling – So you can choose specific apps.

• Works across platforms – Especially Windows, Android, and ideally macOS.

• Built-in kill switch – To cut the internet if VPN drops, even in split mode.

• Clear UI – Easy-to-manage settings save you time and reduce risk.

• No logs + good speed – Privacy without bottlenecks.

Need help choosing? Compare VPNs here — side-by-side and feature by feature.

Can Split Tunneling Bypass VPN Blocks on Certain Apps?

Yes — and that’s a common reason people use it.

Some apps, like mobile banking, streaming services, or location-restricted sites, will block traffic if they detect a VPN. With split tunneling, you can let those apps connect directly without turning off the VPN completely.

But there’s a tradeoff: traffic that bypasses the VPN is not protected. That includes your IP, DNS requests, and potentially sensitive info.

Use this only when needed, and never for apps that involve private data.

So — split tunnel vs full tunnel VPN. Which should you pick?

If privacy and protection are your top priority, go with a full tunnel VPN. It covers everything. No leaks. No blind spots.

But if you need speed, local access, or you’re juggling both secure and regular tasks, a split tunnel VPN gives you more flexibility. Just set it up carefully and avoid routing sensitive stuff outside the VPN.

Not all VPNs offer both options — so check the features before you commit.

1. What’s the main difference between a split tunnel and a full tunnel VPN?

A full tunnel VPN encrypts all your traffic. A split tunnel VPN only encrypts specific apps or websites you choose, letting the rest use your regular internet.

2. Is split tunneling less secure than full tunneling?

Yes. With split tunneling, any traffic that doesn’t go through the VPN is exposed. That’s fine for things like streaming — not for banking or sensitive work.

3. Can I use split tunneling on mobile devices?

It depends on your VPN provider. Some offer split tunneling for Android and Windows, but it’s less common on iOS or Mac.

4. Does a full tunnel VPN slow down internet speed?

It can — because it encrypts everything. If the VPN server is far away or overloaded, you might notice lag.

5. Which VPNs support both split and full tunnel options?

VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark support both in different ways. Always check the platform compatibility first.