VPN split tunneling

Protect the data that matters without losing access to local networks and services.

How does split tunneling work?

Split tunneling lets you stream and share files behind VPN protection while still being able to surf local content. You choose which part of your online traffic is left out of the secure encrypted tunnel and can access the internet directly.

Types of split tunneling

App exclusion

Most VPN apps encrypt your whole connection and let you choose specific apps to exclude from the tunnel. Both our Android and Windows apps offer this option.

Inverse split

Some VPN apps also offer inverse split tunneling, which only encrypts traffic from selected programs. This function is available on the NordVPN Windows app.

Specifying URLs

Browser-based VPN extensions let you specify which URLs need VPN protection.

Do I need split tunneling?

Since connecting to a VPN server can lock you out of your own country’s websites and services, you may be tempted to turn NordVPN off to see what’s happening at home. Don’t leave yourself exposed — use split tunneling to protect the data that matters while you surf at your leisure.

For example, you can set up NordVPN to work with Google Chrome only, letting you access local content on Firefox at the same time. Or enable split tunneling for P2P and streaming apps to benefit from our specialized servers while you do your business online.

However you use it, split tunneling is a very handy tool — but just like every tool, it has its time and place. Keep in mind that others (including your ISP) may be able to see your unencrypted traffic, so always use VPN protection when handling sensitive data.

Enabling split tunneling
on NordVPN apps

NordVPN offers split tunneling for both Android and Windows devices.

NordVPN Android app

STEP 1:

Tap on the cogwheel icon in the top-left corner of the map screen

STEP 2:

Select Split tunneling

STEP 3:

Choose apps to exclude from your secure VPN connection

Get Android App

NordVPN Windows app

STEP 1:

Click on the cogwheel icon in the top-right corner of the map screen

STEP 2:

Select Split tunneling and choose how to enable split tunneling

STEP 3:

Either exclude apps from VPN protection OR enable VPN protection for specific apps only

Get Windows App

Frequently asked questions

What are the advantages of split tunneling?

Split tunneling can really improve your online experience — by excluding some apps from the encrypted VPN tunnel, you’ll be able to access foreign and local services at the same time. For example, you can take advantage of our specialized P2P servers for file sharing while browsing your home country’s versions of websites.

What is the difference between a tunnel-mode VPN and a split-tunnel VPN?

A tunnel-mode (or full tunnel) VPN will encrypt all of your traffic and route it through a secure VPN server, whereas a split-tunnel VPN will only encrypt and route traffic you designate. Split-tunnel VPNs are more flexible, letting you browse faster or access services from multiple locations at the same time, but they’re not as secure as full tunnel VPNs.

How do I turn off split tunneling on the NordVPN Windows app?

By default, the NordVPN Windows app encrypts all of your traffic. You can specify which programs benefit from VPN protection through the Settings: click on the cogwheel icon in the top-right corner of the map screen, select Split tunneling, and set your preferences.

Surf fast and see more with split tunneling

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