What is VPN Split Tunnelling - Visual Guide
Standard VPN connections route all your traffic through an encrypted tunnel. This is secure, but it is often inefficient. It can trigger fraud alerts on banking apps, prevent access to wireless printers, or increase gaming latency. Split Tunnelling solves this by creating two distinct paths for your data.
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Why Do I Need Split Tunnelling?
Local Devices (LAN)
Without Split Tunnelling, your VPN makes you appear to be in another country. This breaks connections to local devices like wireless printers, Chromecasts, and smart home hubs. Enabling it keeps local traffic on your home network.
Low Latency Gaming
VPN encryption adds overhead which increases ping (lag). You can route your game client directly to the internet for maximum speed, while simultaneously keeping your web browser and Discord encrypted.
Banking Access
Banks employ strict fraud detection. If you log in from a VPN server IP address, they may freeze your account. Split Tunnelling allows your banking app to use your real, trusted home IP address.
Configuration Modes
When setting this up in your VPN client software, you will typically see two options. Choosing the correct one is critical for maintaining security:
Inverse Split (Recommended) SECURE
"Encrypt everything, EXCEPT..."
By default, all traffic goes through the VPN. You manually select specific apps (like games or banking) to bypass the tunnel. If you install a new app, it is automatically secure.
App-Based Split RISKY
"Encrypt ONLY these apps..."
Nothing uses the VPN unless you add it to the list. If you download a new browser and forget to add it, your data is exposed. Use with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Split Tunnelling expose my Real IP address?
Yes, but ONLY for the specific applications you choose to exclude from the VPN. For example, if you exclude a video game, the game server sees your real IP, but your web browser and other apps remain hidden and encrypted.
Can I use Split Tunnelling on my mobile?
Yes, most premium Android VPN apps support Split Tunnelling natively. iOS (iPhone) support is more difficult due to Apple's operating system restrictions, but some providers offer a version of it.
Is it safe for Torrenting / P2P?
You must be extremely careful. Ensure your Torrent client is ALWAYS routed through the encrypted VPN tunnel. Never add P2P applications to the 'Bypass' or 'Split' list, otherwise your ISP will see your activity.