Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly. It's powerful but often misunderstood. Here's how to use it properly.
What Is Split Tunneling?
By default, all your internet traffic goes through the VPN tunnel. Split tunneling lets you split traffic: - Some apps use the VPN (protected) - Other apps connect directly (faster, local access)
It's like having two lanes: one secure tunnel, one direct route.
Why Use Split Tunneling?
Access Local Devices With full VPN, you can't access printers, smart home devices, or local network shares. Split tunneling lets local traffic through.
Faster Speeds for Certain Apps Some apps don't need VPN protection. Routing them directly means faster speeds.
Use Local Services Banking apps, food delivery, and local streaming may not work through VPN. Exclude them to keep working.
Save Bandwidth VPN traffic counts toward any VPN data limits. Excluding non-sensitive apps saves your quota.
Better Performance for Gaming Route your games directly while keeping sensitive apps protected.
When NOT to Use Split Tunneling
On Untrusted Networks On public Wi-Fi, you want everything protected. Don't split tunnel.
When Full Privacy Is Critical If all your traffic needs protection, don't create gaps with split tunneling.
If You're Not Sure When in doubt, keep everything through VPN. It's safer.
Types of Split Tunneling
Inclusive (Allowlist) Only selected apps use the VPN. Everything else connects directly.
Best for: When you only need VPN for specific sensitive apps.
Exclusive (Blocklist) Everything uses VPN except selected apps.
Best for: When you want full protection but need a few apps excluded.
URL/Domain-Based Some VPNs let you split by website rather than app. Route specific websites directly.
Apps to Consider Excluding
Local Network Devices - Network printers - Smart home apps - Local file sharing - Network scanners
Location-Dependent Services - Banking apps (may flag VPN as suspicious) - Local streaming (uses local library anyway) - Food delivery apps - Ride-sharing apps
High-Bandwidth Low-Sensitivity - Software updates - Cloud backup (if it's already encrypted) - Certain games
Apps to Always Include in VPN
High Privacy Needs - Web browsers - Email apps - Messaging apps - Work apps - Shopping apps - Social media
Sensitive Data - Password managers - Cloud storage with sensitive files - Financial apps - Healthcare apps
How to Set Up Split Tunneling in Aultra VPN
On Android:
- Open Aultra VPN
- Go to Settings > Split Tunneling
- Toggle Enable Split Tunneling
- Choose your mode:
- - Exclude mode: Select apps to bypass VPN
- - Include mode: Select apps to use VPN
- Select the apps
- Connect to VPN
Your traffic will now be split according to your settings.
Testing Your Split Tunneling
- Enable split tunneling and exclude an app
- Connect to VPN
- Open your browser (through VPN) and check your IP
- Open the excluded app and check what IP it sees
- The browser should show VPN IP; excluded app shows real IP
Security Considerations
Potential Risks - Excluded apps are unprotected - ISP can see activity from excluded apps - Your real IP is visible to excluded apps
Mitigation - Only exclude apps that truly need it - Never exclude sensitive apps - Disable split tunneling on public Wi-Fi - Review your settings periodically
The Bottom Line
Split tunneling is a powerful feature for users who know what they're doing. It balances security with convenience, letting you protect what matters while keeping local access and speed. Use it thoughtfully, and always err on the side of more protection.
