How to set up a VPN with Split Tunneling in 2026

How to set up a VPN with Split Tunneling in 2026

In 2026, many users are looking to bypass restrictions on popular services like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Setting up a VPN withSplit Tunneling has become one of the most relevant solutions for this. In this guide, I will explain what Split Tunneling is, how it works, its advantages, and how to properly set up a VPN with Split Tunneling on various devices.

What is Split Tunneling?

Split Tunneling is a feature that allows you to use a VPN for a specific part of internet traffic while the rest remains in regular mode, without encryption. This is convenient for users who want to bypass restrictions without losing speed for other tasks.

Definition of Split Tunneling

Split Tunneling allows you to split internet traffic into two streams: one goes through the VPN, and the other directly through the internet provider. This means you can, for example, watch YouTube through the VPN while simultaneously using other applications without the VPN.

How Split Tunneling Works

When you set up Split Tunneling, you choose which applications or websites will use the VPN and which will not. This is achieved by configuring the network in your VPN client. For example, you can set it up so that your browser works through the VPN while messengers do not.

Advantages of Using Split Tunneling

Using a VPN with Split Tunneling has many advantages, especially for users who want to bypass restrictions and manage their internet traffic.

Improving Internet Speed

One of the main advantages is improved speed. When all traffic goes through the VPN, it can slow down the connection. With Split Tunneling, you can reduce the load on the VPN server, which ultimately speeds up the internet.

Bypassing Restrictions

With Split Tunneling, you can easily bypass restrictions on YouTube, TikTok, and other services. You simply configure the VPN for these specific applications while the others remain without the VPN, allowing you to avoid unnecessary blocks and limitations.

Traffic Management

With this feature, you can control which data is encrypted and which is not. This is convenient if you have applications that do not require protection or if you need to ensure quick access to local resources.

How to Set Up a VPN with Split Tunneling

Setting up a VPN with Split Tunneling can vary depending on the device. Let's look at how to do this on various platforms.

Setting Up on Windows

To set up Split Tunneling on Windows, open your VPN client. Go to the settings section and find the Split Tunneling option. In most cases, you will need to select the applications you want to route through the VPN. I tested several popular VPN services, and most of them have this feature.

Setting Up on Android

On Android, the process is similar. Open the VPN app, go to settings, and activate Split Tunneling. Select the applications that will use the VPN. Make sure your VPN supports this feature, as not all applications allow it.

Setting Up on iOS

On iOS, the setup is a bit more complicated, as Apple restricts some VPN features. However, many VPN applications provide the option to configure Split Tunneling through their interfaces. Open the app, find the relevant option, and select the necessary applications.

Setting Up on Routers

Setting up Split Tunneling on routers may require more technical knowledge. You will need to access your router's settings and configure traffic routing. Some routers support Split Tunneling at the firmware level. This allows you to choose which devices on your network will use the VPN.

Comparing VPN Protocols for Split Tunneling

Different VPN protocols can affect the operation of Split Tunneling in different ways. Let's compare several popular protocols.

WireGuard

WireGuard is a modern protocol that provides high speed and security. In most cases, it will work well with Split Tunneling, providing minimal latency.

OpenVPN

OpenVPN is one of the most popular protocols, but it may be slower than WireGuard. Nevertheless, it offers excellent security and flexibility. If you need to use Split Tunneling, OpenVPN may be suitable, but check the performance.

IKEv2

IKEv2 is a protocol that is great for mobile devices. It quickly restores the connection when the signal is lost. This makes it a good choice for Split Tunneling, especially when moving between networks.

Shadowsocks

Shadowsocks is a proxy protocol that is often used to bypass blocks. It can be useful in combination with Split Tunneling, but keep in mind that it is not a full-fledged VPN, and security may be lower.

VLESS/XRay

These protocols offer a high level of protection and can be useful for bypassing blocks. However, their setup may be more complex than traditional VPN protocols.

Amnezia

Amnezia is another interesting protocol that provides anonymity. However, compared to other protocols, its support for Split Tunneling may be limited.