Top VPNs for Split Tunneling

Split tunneling remains a rare but valuable VPN feature, enabling selective encryption for sensitive activities while allowing other traffic direct internet access for optimal performance.

Our comprehensive evaluation of over 50 leading VPN services revealed only a handful excel at split tunneling while meeting stringent security and performance standards. Key selection criteria included:

• Lightning-fast connection speeds
• Military-grade encryption protocols
• Verified no-logs policies
• Global server coverage
• Reliable streaming unblocking capabilities
• Responsive customer support

NordVPN emerges as the premier choice, delivering exceptional speeds, robust security features, and seamless split tunneling functionality across platforms. ExpressVPN stands out with unique router-level implementation, while Surfshark offers unlimited connections at an affordable price point.

Additional noteworthy options include:

• IPVanish for multi-device households
• CyberGhost for user-friendly automation
• ProtonVPN for a free tier with split tunneling
• Private Internet Access for advanced customization

Crucially, all recommended providers offer trustworthy money-back guarantees, allowing risk-free testing. Avoid free VPNs entirely due to potential security compromises and performance limitations.

For optimal results, prioritize VPNs with native split tunneling integration rather than complicated manual configurations. NordVPN currently provides a full-featured 30-day trial period with unconditional refunds available.

Split tunneling is a valuable feature offered by select Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), allowing users to route specific traffic through the encrypted tunnel while other connections bypass it. This capability optimizes performance by ensuring only necessary data passes through the VPN, reducing bandwidth usage and potentially improving speeds.

Unfortunately, not all VPN providers include this functionality in their services. Through our comprehensive hands-on evaluations and real-world testing, we've identified several standout options that implement split tunneling effectively.

Our assessment process involved installing each VPN across multiple devices, configuring various split tunneling scenarios, and measuring performance impacts. We paid particular attention to ease of configuration, granularity of control, and reliability of the feature across different operating systems.

The providers that made our recommendation list demonstrated consistent performance, intuitive interfaces for managing split tunneling settings, and compatibility across major platforms. Each underwent rigorous security testing to ensure that traffic separation maintained proper encryption where needed without compromising overall protection.

These selections represent VPNs we've personally used extensively, not merely researched. Our first-hand experience with these services informs our confidence in recommending them for users who prioritize the split tunneling capability. Jun 2025 offers Split Tunneling Tested Jun 2025NordVPN stands out as the premier option for split tunneling. With its robust security features, it ensures that users can safely enjoy a broad spectrum of streaming platforms and content that is otherwise restricted by geographical boundaries. The extensive server network, spanning over 7,000 servers across more than 100 countries, provides unparalleled access and flexibility. Additionally, each subscription supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for both individual and family use. While NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, the intuitive design of their applications makes navigating the advanced features a breeze.

NordVPN now extends split tunneling beyond browser extensions to its Android and Windows applications, streamlining the process significantly.

Relying solely on a secondary browser for selective site tunneling proves cumbersome by comparison.

Performance is critical for split tunneling users seeking optimal speeds.

Our rigorous testing across three US servers revealed exceptional results.

This service maintained an impressive average download speed of 206.64 Mbps from a 250 Mbps base connection.

Remarkably, it showed minimal variance—just 7 Mbps across tests—highlighting NordVPN's position as a top-tier provider for both speed and unwavering consistency.

Platform availability includes dedicated apps for Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and macOS.

Router configuration requires manual setup.

Consider NordVPN ideal if:

You prioritize built-in split tunneling on Windows or Android devices

Ultra-fast, stable speeds for selectively tunneled applications are essential

Accessing geo-blocked platforms like Netflix or BBC iPlayer is a goal

You desire advanced features such as Double VPN alongside split tunneling in a single solution

A user-friendly interface that simplifies complex options appeals to you

NordVPN may not suit you if:

You're a macOS or iOS user needing native app-based split tunneling functionality

NordVPN stands out as the premier choice for split tunneling capability.

Its combination of this feature with robust security and reliable performance makes it highly compelling.

All subscriptions are backed by a straightforward 30-day money-back guarantee.

Explore the comprehensive NordVPN review or view the associated video analysis for deeper insights. offers Split Tunneling Tested Jun 2025Surfshark, an affordable VPN, provides the functionality of split tunneling. This service boasts over 3,200 servers spread across more than 100 countries, ensuring that users can enjoy a fast and low-latency connection from any location. It is particularly effective for securely accessing popular streaming platforms such as Netflix US and Amazon Prime Video, regardless of your geographical location. Additionally, Surfshark allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, meaning you can safeguard all your devices with just one account.

Surfshark stands out as an exceptional value-driven VPN

boasting unlimited simultaneous connections

a rare advantage for multi-device households or power users

Its versatile split tunneling capabilities deserve special mention

allowing selective exclusion of apps or websites from the VPN tunnel

providing granular control over your encrypted traffic

Security remains uncompromised with military-grade 256-bit AES encryption

an always-active kill switch across platforms

and robust protection against leaks

including IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC vulnerabilities

The service reliably bypasses restrictive networks via its NoBorders mode

ideal for travelers or users in censorship-heavy regions

while maintaining a strict no-logs policy verified through audits

Performance-wise, Surfshark consistently delivers blazing speeds

averaging around 189 Mbps in recent tests

making it ideal for streaming HD content

large file transfers, and buffer-free browsing

Available for Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux

though iOS users should note its split tunneling feature remains unavailable

Manual router configuration extends its reach

This VPN shines for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features

especially those prioritizing multi-device split tunneling

and requiring both application-level and browser-level bypass options

All protected by a risk-free 30-day refund guarantee offers Split Tunneling Tested Jun 2025IpVanish stands out as a versatile service, recently broadening its network to span over 100 countries. This provider places a significant emphasis on security and is increasingly compatible with a wide array of geo-restricted streaming services. Notably, it's among the select few that enable users to protect all their devices simultaneously. Additionally, customers can access 24/7 support through live chat. The service also now offers an enhanced subscription level, which combines the VPN with cloud storage and a one-of-a-kind ephemeral web browser.

This service stands out for its comprehensive split tunneling support across various platforms, though the functionality varies by operating system. On Windows, you can exclude both specific apps and websites, while on Apple devices, the feature is limited to apps, and on Android, it's restricted to sites. To activate split tunneling, simply navigate to the settings via the gear icon, select the split tunneling tab, and input the app or domain you wish to bypass.

The network infrastructure of this provider is built exclusively with 25 Gbps servers, a significant upgrade from the 10 Gbps servers used by many competitors. This setup led us to anticipate impressive performance during our speed tests. Conducted at different times of the day on a 250 Mbps connection, which is typical for US households, the results were as follows:

The average speed observed was 185.09 Mbps, making it one of the fastest services we tested. This speed is more than sufficient for streaming multiple 4K videos simultaneously, ensuring smooth video calls and TV viewing without any noticeable lag. The consistency was also remarkable, with only a 5 Mbps fluctuation throughout the testing period.

In terms of compatibility, the service offers applications for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Additionally, it supports Linux and routers, though manual configuration is required for these platforms.

Consider this VPN if:

• You need split tunneling on all major platforms, including Android, iOS, and Windows.
• You prefer a user-friendly interface for managing split tunneling settings.
• You require unlimited connections to control tunneling across multiple devices.
• You value high-speed performance, thanks to 25 Gbps servers.

However, you might want to look elsewhere if:

• You are concerned about using a service based in the US, a Five Eyes jurisdiction.

For Android and Fire OS users, this service is an excellent choice for split tunneling. Its fast speeds make it ideal for streaming and downloading, and you can use it on all your devices at the same time. The service also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans. offers Split Tunneling Tested Jun 2025

Top VPN Features and Options

ExpressVPN stands out in the VPN industry with its comprehensive service offerings. With servers in 105 countries worldwide, this provider excels at bypassing censorship in restrictive regions such as China.

One of its notable features is split tunneling, which is available on Windows, Android, and Linux platforms. This functionality allows users to route only specific traffic through the VPN while maintaining direct access for other applications. However, it's worth noting that recent macOS versions no longer support this feature, and iOS users cannot access split tunneling at all.

ExpressVPN provides generous simultaneous connection allowances, permitting up to eight devices to connect at once under a single subscription.

For customer support, the provider offers round-the-clock assistance through its live chat service, ensuring users can resolve any issues regardless of their time zone.

ExpressVPN stands apart by enabling router-based device-level traffic routing

Choose specific home gadgets to encrypt while leaving others on a standard connection

Its intuitive dashboard displays all recently linked devices with simple toggle controls

Assignment occurs regardless of whether devices are currently active

Performance remains exceptional despite already leading industry speed benchmarks

A revamped Lightway protocol pushes boundaries further in recent stress tests

U.S. servers demonstrated remarkable consistency during peak usage periods

Average throughput exceeds 140 Mbps - ample for 4K streaming while gaming online

Cross-platform applications support both include/exclude split tunneling logic

Desktop users benefit from granular per-application traffic customization

Immediate 24/7 chat assistance complements the polished interface

Consider alternatives if seeking website-specific tunneling rules

Budget-conscious users may find premium pricing prohibitive

Combining robust security with versatile traffic controls

The 30-day trial period offers full functionality without financial risk

Comprehensive evaluation available in our detailed ExpressVPN analysis offers Split Tunneling Tested Jun 2025CyberGhost boasts an extensive network, spanning 100 countries. It offers specialized servers for different purposes, such as streaming, torrenting, and enhancing user anonymity. Our experience shows that CyberGhost is highly dependable for bypassing geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. The service allows for up to seven simultaneous device connections and provides 24/7 customer support for any assistance you might need.

CyberGhost empowers you with granular control over VPN coverage through its split-include functionality.

Select specific applications for protection and assign each a unique server location globally.

Access these settings via the Preferences tab in the desktop application.

Automate connections using Smart Rules , triggering your chosen server whenever designated apps launch.

Performance shines in rigorous speed tests: averaging 126.89 Mbps on U.S. servers with minimal fluctuation.

This consistency enables rapid downloads—complete a 1GB file in under 60 seconds—ideal for HD streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Available across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, and Fire Stick.

Security highlights include AES-256 encryption and strictly anonymous accounts.

Backed by a transparent 45-day money-back guarantee.

Opt for CyberGhost when:

• Prioritizing intuitive split tunneling for beginners
• Needing stable high speeds during split-tunneled sessions
• Requiring diverse server access across 10,000+ global nodes

Consider alternatives if:

• Domain-level tunneling is essential (app-only support here)
• Needing reliable access in restrictive regions like China or UAE

Explore comprehensive insights in our detailed CyberGhost review.

ProtonVPN delivers split tunneling on both Windows and Android platforms.

Access this feature even while using the complimentary tier.

However, upgrading unlocks substantial advantages:

Significantly enhanced connection speeds await paid subscribers.

Gain entry to a massive network spanning 110+ countries and 12,000+ servers.

Overcome geo-restrictions on major platforms like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.

Connect up to ten times more devices simultaneously.

Receive priority assistance through direct contact with the support team for troubleshooting.

ProtonVPN delivers exceptional security with advanced features beyond just split tunneling. Their comprehensive protection includes ad and tracker blocking, speed enhancement technology, and optional port forwarding capabilities. Security-conscious users will appreciate their multi-hop servers housed in high-security facilities.

Privacy is paramount with ProtonVPN's strict no-logs policy for personal information, verified through independent audits. They support anonymous payment methods while implementing essential security measures like strong encryption, automatic kill switch functionality, and protection against data leaks.

Performance testing reveals ProtonVPN's remarkable speed capabilities. Our evaluation of US-based servers showed an impressive average of 135.18 Mbps, significantly outperforming most competitors. This translates to smooth browsing experiences even in households with multiple connected devices. During testing, we successfully performed concurrent online activities without experiencing speed degradation or streaming quality issues.

The service offers dedicated applications for major platforms including Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and macOS. Network-wide protection is possible through their extensive router configuration documentation.

Consider ProtonVPN if you require advanced security features like Secure Core or port forwarding, prioritize privacy with strong audit verification, or need split tunneling in their free tier offerings.

However, look elsewhere if you need website-specific exclusions rather than just app-based tunneling, or plan to use split tunneling for streaming services while in China.

ProtonVPN combines speed with security, making it ideal for split tunneling on Windows and Android. While their free plan offers decent functionality, upgrading provides superior speeds and streaming platform compatibility, all backed by a 30-day refund guarantee.

Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as a versatile and efficient service, offering split tunneling capabilities on a wide array of devices, though it's not available for iOS. With an extensive network of servers in over 90 countries, PIA ensures seamless access to geo-restricted content, including popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. A recent update has removed the connection limit, allowing you to protect all devices within a household with a single account.

VPN Features Overview

Private Internet Access VPN: A Comprehensive Analysis

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers robust security features to protect your online activities from prying eyes. The service employs strong encryption protocols alongside essential security tools like a kill switch and leak protection mechanisms. For users seeking enhanced privacy, PIA provides options to customize DNS servers, utilize random port connections, and implement multi-hop server routing for additional anonymity layers.

One of PIA's strongest selling points is its verified no-logs policy. Unlike many competitors who merely claim not to track user activities, PIA has undergone independent audits to confirm this commitment. This verification provides users with greater confidence in the service's privacy promises.

Customer assistance is readily available through both email and live chat channels, operating continuously to ensure users can resolve issues promptly regardless of their time zone.

Performance testing revealed PIA delivers an average speed of 73.62 Mbps, which adequately supports demanding activities like streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming. However, our testing identified notable speed fluctuations of approximately 21 Mbps throughout the day, representing about one-third variation from its average performance.

The service offers broad device compatibility with dedicated applications for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms. Additionally, certain router models support manual PIA installation.

PIA might be ideal for users who:

• Need unlimited simultaneous device connections with split tunneling
• Require advanced security configurations including custom DNS settings and multi-hop connections
• Want app-specific split tunneling across most major platforms (iOS excluded)

However, PIA may not suit users who:

• Depend on highly consistent connection speeds
• Need specialized streaming optimization features

The service maintains an extensive server network with reasonable connection speeds and customizable privacy settings. All subscription plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, and the company provides round-the-clock support through live chat for troubleshooting assistance. offers split tunneling Tested Jun 2025With over 6,000 servers scattered across the globe, PureVPN stands out as a remarkably versatile service. It excels in unblocking content, making it an excellent choice for streaming, torrenting, and online gaming.

One of its key features is split tunneling, which is available on both Windows and Android devices. This feature allows you to route some of your traffic through the VPN while keeping other traffic outside, enhancing both security and flexibility.

For those needing assistance, live chat support is readily available to help with setup and any other queries. Additionally, PureVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections without any bandwidth restrictions, ensuring a seamless and unrestricted experience.

PureVPN is a robust and versatile service that ensures your online safety with top-notch encryption, protecting against IPv6 and DNS leaks. It also offers automatic tracker blocking if you opt for the Plus Max plan. A standout feature is its independently-verified no-logs policy, ensuring your activities remain private. This VPN even functions in highly restrictive environments like China.

In terms of speed, we conducted tests on PureVPN's U.S. servers at different times of the day (morning, noon, and afternoon) using a 250 Mbps connection. Our results showed an average speed of 60.31 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for 4K streaming, torrenting, gaming, and other daily tasks. The speed variations were within an 8 Mbps range, indicating consistent performance. If you're looking for a fast and reliable service with split tunneling, PureVPN is a solid choice.

The service is available on a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux. For those who prefer, it can also be manually installed on most home routers.

Consider PureVPN if:

• You need a global network with servers in over 65 countries.
• You value user-friendly split tunneling features.

However, PureVPN may not be the best fit if:

• You require split tunneling on iOS or macOS.
• You demand the highest possible connection speeds.

PureVPN stands out as a speedy, security-focused option with extensive capabilities. It includes split tunneling and boasts one of the largest networks. Additionally, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans.

Our testing process for VPNs involves multiple criteria to ensure accuracy and reliability. We conduct three speed tests per provider at different times of the day on a 250 Mbps connection, using American servers. The results are averaged and normalized to provide a final score out of 10. In our tests, NordVPN was the fastest, followed closely by Surfshark and IPVanish. All eight recommended VPNs performed well for everyday tasks.

We also evaluated the versatility of these services by examining their server networks, streaming compatibility, and simultaneous connection limits. Surfshark emerged as the leader, offering unlimited connections and flawless access to major streaming platforms, with servers in over 100 countries. NordVPN was a close second, but its 10-device limit prevented it from taking the top spot.

Security is our top priority. To be included in our list, a VPN must offer unbreakable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. They must also have a no-logs policy, ideally verified by an audit. Here are the 16 criteria we consider when evaluating the security of each VPN:

Split tunneling remains a rare gem among VPN features,

with only a handful of providers offering true control over your traffic routing.

Forget complex security charts—this function's real value lies in practical flexibility.

NordVPN and Surfshark deliver it seamlessly,

letting you stream local content while banking apps stay securely encrypted.

The scarcity stems from implementation complexity.

Unlike basic VPNs that tunnel everything,

split tunneling demands sophisticated app-level routing.

NordVPN simplifies this for beginners with intuitive checkboxes,

while Surfshark offers granular control despite its jurisdiction.

We prioritized providers balancing power with accessibility.

Look for per-app selection,

router compatibility,

and dedicated streaming/gaming modes—

Private Internet Access excels here with unlimited connections.

True split tunneling transforms your VPN from a blunt instrument to a precision tool.

Choose services that make selective encryption effortless

without sacrificing core security fundamentals.

When it comes to choosing a VPN, cost is a critical factor. Our team prioritizes finding services that offer fair pricing and then looks for additional ways to make them more affordable. This includes investigating how frequently the VPNs go on sale, whether they offer discounts for students, and if there are savings to be had by opting for longer subscription plans. We also examine whether they provide free trials and what restrictions might apply. However, to receive our recommendation, the service must include a money-back guarantee.

In this regard, Surfshark stands out. It offers substantial discounts on long-term subscriptions, allows an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections, and is highly effective at bypassing various forms of online restrictions, including China's stringent internet censorship.

Split tunneling selectively routes internet traffic,

encrypting only specified apps or destinations while others connect directly.

This VPN functionality operates in three primary modes:

App-based control directs chosen applications through the encrypted tunnel

Device-level routing (via VPN-enabled routers) assigns protection per hardware

Destination filtering activates VPN only for pre-defined websites or IPs (less common)

Performance benefits include:

Reduced latency for non-VPN activities like online gaming

Bandwidth conservation by excluding non-sensitive traffic

Uninterrupted access to local network printers and smart devices

Simultaneous use of region-restricted and local content services

Security considerations reveal:

Potential exposure risks if malware infiltrates the unprotected connection

Minimal consumer impact versus critical concerns for corporate networks

Risk mitigation through precise configuration of allowed apps/domains

Implementation varies significantly:

NordVPN and Surfshark offer intuitive app-level controls

Surfshark uniquely permits website/IP address exceptions

CyberGhost restricts customization to application-level only

Router firmware (e.g., ExpressVPN) enables device-specific rules

Setup typically involves:

Enabling the feature in VPN settings before connection

Designating apps for encryption or exclusion lists

Toggling activation via checkbox interfaces

Critical usage notes:

Free VPNs universally lack reliable split tunneling capabilities

Inverse tunneling (whitelisting) functions as default protection with exclusions

Protocol support extends beyond OpenVPN to WireGuard and IKEv2

Trustworthy paid services prevent data harvesting risks inherent in free alternatives

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a specialized virtual private network service that enables viewers to bypass geographical restrictions on Netflix's streaming platform, allowing access to content libraries from different countries. By routing your internet connection through servers located in various regions worldwide, a Netflix VPN effectively masks your actual location and makes it appear as if you're browsing from the country where your desired content is available. This technology has become increasingly popular among streaming enthusiasts who want to explore the full range of Netflix's international offerings rather than being limited to their local catalog.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If your Netflix vpn not working due to outdated software or detection issues, you may want to consider SafeShell VPN for seamless access to region-restricted content.

1. High-Speed Netflix Streaming: SafeShell provides dedicated servers optimized for Netflix, ensuring blazing-fast speeds for buffer-free 4K streaming and uninterrupted viewing.
2. Robust Security: With its proprietary ShellGuard protocol and military-grade encryption, SafeShell VPN safeguards your data while bypassing geo-blocks securely.
3. Multi-Device Support: Connect up to five devices simultaneously across platforms like iOS, Android, Smart TVs, and desktops for flexible entertainment access.
4. Exclusive App Mode: Unlock multiple regional libraries at once, expanding your content choices beyond typical VPN limitations.
5. Free Trial Option: Test all premium features risk-free before committing, including high-speed streaming and cross-platform compatibility.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To begin using SafeShell Netflix VPN , first subscribe to a suitable plan on the official SafeShell VPN website and complete your registration. Download the SafeShell VPN application tailored for your specific operating system, such as Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, directly from their site. After installation, launch the app and log in securely using your newly created account credentials. The platform offers distinct operational modes; specifically for streaming, ensure you select the APP mode to optimize performance.

Next, within the SafeShell VPN interface, browse the list of available VPN servers and choose one located in your desired region, such as the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, to access its specific Netflix library. Click the Connect button to establish a secure VPN tunnel to the selected server location. Once the connection is successfully established, simply open the Netflix app on your device or navigate to the Netflix website through your browser. Log into your Netflix account as usual, and you can immediately start enjoying seamless viewing of geo-restricted content made accessible via your SafeShell Netflix VPN connection.