VPN split tunneling: route traffic your way with ExpressVPN
Take control over your online activity with ExpressVPN’s split tunneling, and get both the flexibility and security you need
- Choose which apps or websites use ExpressVPN and which connect directly
- Keep sensitive data protected while boosting VPN performance
- Rely on simple setup across all major devices—no tech skills required
30-day money-back guarantee*
*for first-time users
Why use VPN split tunneling?
Take control of your traffic with a split tunneling VPN
Have you ever noticed your printer, smart TV, or certain apps stop working when you’re connected to a VPN? Some banking apps won’t even load because they block VPN traffic.
Split tunneling solves this by letting you choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly. That way, you can have secure connections without disrupting local devices, slowing down your network, or losing access to essential tools.
What split tunneling does and how it helps
Balance privacy, speed, and convenience with a split tunneling VPN
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![Manage traffic between the VPN and local network A VPN with advanced features like split tunneling lets you choose which apps or traffic use the VP...]()
Manage traffic between the VPN and local network
A VPN with advanced features like split tunneling lets you choose which apps or traffic use the VPN and which stay on your regular internet. Many VPNs also offer an option to keep local network access enabled, so devices like printers or smart home gear remain reachable while selected apps stay protected.
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![Improve app performance and bandwidth use VPNs can sometimes slow your connection speeds because all traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel, ad...]()
Improve app performance and bandwidth use
VPNs can sometimes slow your connection speeds because all traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel, adding processing and longer server routes. High-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, or large downloads may be affected. This is where split tunneling steps in.
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![Split tunneling vs. full tunneling Unlike full tunneling, where all traffic routes through the VPN, split tunneling creates a dual-path setup. Full...]()
Split tunneling vs. full tunneling
Unlike full tunneling, where all traffic routes through the VPN, split tunneling creates a dual-path setup. Full tunneling provides maximum protection but can slow down high-bandwidth activities. Split tunneling balances speed and security—your way.
How to enable VPN split tunneling on ExpressVPN
Using a powerful split tunneling VPN is just 3 steps away
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Step 1
Open ExpressVPN and go to “Settings”
Launch ExpressVPN on your device and access “Settings” (or “Options”).
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Step 2
Select “Split Tunneling” and choose your apps
Open “Split Tunneling”and select which apps or device groups use—or bypass—the VPN.
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Step 3
Save the settings and start using the VPN
Click “OK” or “Save” to activate. Browse with full flexibility and control.
Devices and platforms that support split tunneling
Split tunneling with ExpressVPN is available for most major devices
Windows
Supported on Windows versions 12.74.0 and later, ExpressVPN lets you manage app-level routing and works on Windows 10 and 11 devices.
Android
Available on Android 5.0 and above, ExpressVPN’s split-tunneling feature lets you control VPN usage per app on smartphones and tablets.
macOS legacy versions
Split tunneling on macOS is limited to versions 10.11 through 10.15 (El Capitan to Catalina).
It is not available on macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, so users must verify their version before trying to enable it.
Aircove and Aircove Go routers
ExpressVPN’s Aircove lets you organize connected devices into separate groups and assign each group to a different VPN connection.
Create up to five groups—for example, one using a local IP address, one through a VPN server abroad, and one left unprotected—giving you control, security, and fast connections where you need them. Aircove makes setup and management simple for all your devices.
Linux
ExpressVPN’s split tunneling is available in its Linux GUI app for supported 64-bit distributions, including Ubuntu 24.04+, Debian 10+, Fedora 30+, Arch (latest rolling), Linux Mint 20+, and Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit).
Users can assign specific apps or IP addresses to use the VPN or connect directly. This lets you balance speed with security while keeping selected traffic protected.
What you can expect with split tunneling
Take control of your digital footprint with a split tunneling VPN
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Faster speeds for selected apps
Keep high-demand apps performing at their best. Stream movies on your preferred platforms or play games like Fortnite or Roblox, while sensitive apps—such as banking or work tools—stay encrypted.
Speeds may vary depending on your ISP connection and the VPN server you choose, but your data remains fully protected.
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Stay connected to local devices and services
Imagine sipping a cocktail in the tropics while checking your home security camera. With split tunneling, your secure apps run through the VPN while your home devices stay safely connected on your local network.
The trusted technology behind ExpressVPN’s split tunneling
What makes ExpressVPN the best VPN with split tunneling?
Lightway protocol and TrustedServer technology
Get fast, secure, and reliable performance on all your devices with ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. It’s mobile-friendly, optimized for minimal battery use, and keeps your connection stable even when switching networks.
Our TrustedServer technology runs on RAM-only servers, ensuring your VPN traffic is never stored and stays private and protected every time you connect.
Independently audited and verified
Independently audited by KPMG and PwC, our strict no-logs policy guarantees that your browsing activity, IP address, and connection data are never collected or stored.
Even ExpressVPN is unable to view or retrieve this data.
24/7 live chat and 30-day money-back guarantee
Try ExpressVPN risk-free, with our 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time subscribers.
Our multilingual customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat and email for any troubleshooting or questions. Just reach out!
What people are saying about ExpressVPN
See why our satisfied customers use ExpressVPN
I have ExpressVPN on all my devices - phone, laptop, tablet, AppleTV, etc., and absolutely love it.
* A sample of reviews from our most satisfied customers
Got an account with @expressvpn yesterday. Great decision for traveling out of the country!
@D_Geiger
* A sample of reviews from our most satisfied customers
With its consistent performance and reliable security, ExpressVPN is the best VPN out there.
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Frequently asked questions: Split tunneling in a VPN
What you need to know about a VPN with split tunneling
What is VPN split tunneling, and how does it work?
VPN split tunneling lets you choose which apps, IP addresses, or devices use the VPN and which connect directly. ExpressVPN keeps selected traffic encrypted while other connections stay normal, helping you balance privacy, speed, and connectivity across all devices.
Are there any security risks with split tunneling?
Excluding traffic from your VPN means that data not routed through ExpressVPN could be visible to your ISP or third parties. Always use VPN-protected connections for sensitive activities, downloads, or personal information to maintain privacy and security.
Should I enable split tunneling?
Yes. With split tunneling, you can stream your favorite content via your preferred account, and download safely without slowing other activity. It balances speed, convenience, and privacy, though sensitive data should always use VPN-protected connections.
How do I know if split tunneling is active?
You can open the ExpressVPN app and check the 'split‑tunneling' settings to review which apps or IP addresses are configured to use the VPN or connect directly. If your custom selections appear, then split tunneling is enabled and managing traffic as configured.
What’s the difference between full tunnel and split tunnel modes?
Full tunneling sends all traffic through the VPN, protecting every connection. Split tunneling lets you choose which apps or devices use the VPN, while others connect directly. Inverse split tunneling protects only selected apps or devices, leaving the rest outside the VPN.
Do all VPNs offer split tunneling?
No. Many VPNs only use full tunneling, sending all traffic through the VPN and potentially slowing apps. ExpressVPN supports split tunneling on multiple platforms, letting you choose which apps or devices use the VPN while others connect directly.
What’s the best VPN for split tunneling?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN with split tunneling, offering fast 10 Gbps servers in 105 countries, private IP addresses, and a verified no-logs policy. With unlimited bandwidth, 256-bit AES encryption, and a 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time users, it ensures secure browsing and reliable connections across devices.
Try split tunneling risk-free with ExpressVPN
First-time subscribers can try ExpressVPN risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.*
