How to Use Split Tunneling Like a Pro

Introduction

The world of VPNs offers many powerful features designed to protect your privacy and improve your browsing experience. One of the most useful yet often overlooked tools is split tunneling — a feature that allows you to control which apps or websites use your VPN connection and which ones don’t. This flexibility gives you the best of both worlds: secure access to restricted content and direct, high-speed connections for trusted apps.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your VPN experience, ExpressVPN is one of the best options available today. It offers high-speed servers, advanced privacy tools, and seamless split tunneling functionality. You can even save money on your subscription by using the express vpn discount code. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about using split tunneling like a pro — including how it works, when to use it, and how ExpressVPN makes it effortless.

What Is Split Tunneling and How Does It Work?

Split tunneling is a VPN feature that lets you divide your internet traffic into two separate “tunnels.” One tunnel routes traffic through your encrypted VPN connection, while the other sends it directly through your regular internet service provider (ISP).

Here’s a simple example:

• You want to stream a local TV channel that only works in your country.

• At the same time, you want to connect securely to your office network through a VPN.
  Split tunneling allows both actions to happen simultaneously — one protected and encrypted, the other connected normally.

In other words, it gives you control over what data goes through the VPN and what doesn’t.

Key benefits of split tunneling:

• Faster browsing: Only selected apps use the VPN, reducing bandwidth use.

• Access local and global content: Watch local TV while streaming international content through the VPN.

• Optimize performance: Avoid unnecessary encryption for trusted apps.

• Customize privacy: Keep work-related or financial apps under encryption while browsing freely elsewhere.

ExpressVPN’s split tunneling feature is designed to give users this flexibility with just a few clicks — no complicated setup required.

Types of Split Tunneling

ExpressVPN offers two main types of split tunneling, depending on your needs and the device you’re using. Understanding both helps you make the most out of this feature.

1. App-based split tunneling:
   This allows you to choose specific apps that will use the VPN. For example, you can route your web browser through the VPN while keeping your music streaming app on your regular connection.

2. Inverse split tunneling:
   In this mode, all traffic goes through the VPN by default, except for the apps you choose to exclude. This is great if you want maximum protection while making a few exceptions for trusted apps or local services.

Both options are available in ExpressVPN’s desktop app (Windows, Mac, and Android), giving you full control over your connection preferences.

Why You Should Use Split Tunneling

Using split tunneling comes with several advantages, especially if you want both security and speed.

Here are the main reasons to use it:

• Improved internet speed: Only part of your traffic is encrypted, which means faster loading times for apps not using the VPN.

• Uninterrupted access to local content: You can use your local banking app while streaming a foreign show.

• Better device performance: Reduces the strain on your device by limiting how much data goes through the VPN.

• More control over data privacy: Decide which apps need encryption based on your preferences.

For instance, you might want to protect your email and work tools with a VPN while leaving streaming services or online games on your regular connection for maximum speed.

If you haven’t already subscribed, you can use the express vpn discount code to enjoy these benefits at a reduced price.

How to Enable Split Tunneling on ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN makes enabling split tunneling straightforward and user-friendly. Follow these steps to activate it and customize your setup:

For Desktop (Windows or Mac):

1. Open the ExpressVPN app on your device.

2. Go to Options (or Preferences on Mac).

3. Click on the Split Tunneling tab.

4. Choose one of the following:

   • All apps use the VPN (default).

   • Do not allow selected apps to use the VPN.

   • Only allow selected apps to use the VPN.

5. Add the apps you want to include or exclude.

6. Click OK and reconnect to the VPN.

For Android:

1. Open the ExpressVPN app.

2. Tap the menu icon and go to Settings > Split Tunneling.

3. Choose which apps you want to route through or outside the VPN.

4. Save your settings.

That’s it! ExpressVPN will automatically handle your internet traffic according to your preferences.

Best Use Cases for Split Tunneling

Knowing when to use split tunneling is key to maximizing its potential. Here are some of the best scenarios where this feature shines:

1. Streaming Services

Many users like to watch region-locked shows while keeping access to local streaming services. Split tunneling lets you do both — for example, you can:

• Use the VPN to access Netflix US or BBC iPlayer.

• Use your regular connection for local streaming apps or live TV.

2. Remote Work

When working remotely, you might need to access your company’s secure network but still use local resources like printers or cloud storage. Split tunneling ensures:

• Secure connections for work-related apps.

• Direct, fast access to local devices and resources.

3. Gaming

Gamers benefit from split tunneling because it allows:

• Lower latency for games that don’t need a VPN.

• Protection from DDoS attacks or region restrictions when needed.

4. Banking and Financial Apps

You can exclude banking apps from the VPN to prevent triggering security warnings from your bank while keeping everything else encrypted.

By combining convenience and control, split tunneling helps users balance security, speed, and access like never before.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Split Tunneling

While split tunneling is a powerful tool, it’s important to use it wisely. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid:

• Excluding sensitive apps: Always keep financial, work, or email apps inside the VPN tunnel.

• Forgetting to recheck settings: Review your split tunneling setup after VPN updates to ensure your preferences are intact.

• Assuming all devices support it: Not every platform (like iOS) offers split tunneling due to system restrictions.

• Using it on untrusted networks: Avoid using open Wi-Fi connections without VPN protection for important apps.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll make sure you stay both secure and efficient.

Advantages of ExpressVPN’s Split Tunneling

ExpressVPN’s implementation of split tunneling is one of the most advanced in the industry. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Easy configuration: User-friendly interface that doesn’t require technical skills.

• Compatibility: Works across major operating systems and devices.

• Custom flexibility: Add or remove apps instantly based on your needs.

• Enhanced performance: Keeps streaming smooth and secure without lag.

• Top-tier encryption: Maintains ExpressVPN’s trusted 256-bit AES encryption for protected traffic.

This feature is perfect for users who want total control over their online experience without compromising security.

Future of Split Tunneling and VPN Technology

As VPN technology continues to evolve, split tunneling is expected to become even more refined. Future improvements may include:

• Smart automation: VPNs automatically decide which apps use encryption based on user behavior.

• Better integration with IoT devices: Split tunneling support for smart home gadgets.

• Improved efficiency: Faster speeds even when multiple devices are connected.

ExpressVPN is already at the forefront of innovation with technologies like Lightway Protocol and TrustedServer, ensuring faster and safer connections worldwide.

Conclusion

Split tunneling is one of the most practical and efficient VPN features available today. It empowers users to enjoy the perfect balance between security and performance — whether for streaming, gaming, remote work, or daily browsing. ExpressVPN makes this process seamless, offering easy setup and advanced control over your data.

By learning how to use split tunneling like a pro, you can protect what matters most while maintaining blazing-fast internet speeds. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to take advantage of the express vpn discount code and explore the full potential of ExpressVPN’s powerful features.

With ExpressVPN, you’re not just connecting to the internet — you’re doing it smartly, securely, and efficiently.