What Is NordVPN Split Tunneling?

nordvpn split tunneling

NordVPN Split Tunneling is a powerful tool for internet users, giving them greater control over their privacy and security.

It allows users to set specific rules for which data should be encrypted by Nord VPN’s secure VPN service and which can use their regular internet connection.

This means you can keep your browsing activity hidden while accessing the full range of websites without worrying about your IP address or location being tracked.

With Split Tunneling, you can choose which applications will benefit from the additional encryption and added anonymity, giving you complete control over what you do online.

Overview of split tunneling

Split tunneling is a feature offered by virtual private network (VPN) providers that allow users to select which traffic should go through the VPN tunnel and which should not.

This advanced configuration technique enables end users or administrators to transmit only certain types of traffic over the secured, encrypted connection of the VPN while allowing other types of traffic to be sent directly through their internet service provider.

Split tunneling provides flexibility while ensuring an added level of security by ensuring that all sensitive data is sent via a secured tunnel, protecting it from potential malicious activity and malicious actors outside the VPN’s network.

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4.9
NordVPN offers a vast array of servers, the best speeds and uptime, advanced features, robust security measures, and user-friendly interfaces for all major platforms.
Runner Up
4.6
Reliable and fast performance using Surfshark's unique VPN solution. Connect globally with 10 GBit servers spanning 100 countries. Browse without the interruptions of ads, trackers, or cookie alerts.
Good All-Around VPN
4.4
Atlas VPN offers an easy-to-use interface with multiple choices. This VPN is a great pick if you're looking for an alternative to the major players.
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What is the difference between a tunnel mode VPN and a split tunneling VPN?

Tunnel mode and split tunneling are two distinct VPN modes that facilitate securing data. In tunnel mode, all traffic from a device is routed through the VPN, providing encryption for both sending and receiving.

In split tunneling mode, only specific applications selected by the user are routed through the VPN tunnel, with all other traffic being sent directly to its destination unencrypted.

Split tunneling provides more granular control over which applications should be protected by encryption versus those that don’t need encrypting.

Tunneling mode offers a more secure connection for users overall, providing blanket protection regardless of the application used at any given time.

Some reasons you might need NordVPN’s split tunneling feature

NordVPN’s split tunneling feature can significantly benefit certain users due to its speed, LAN device access, and simultaneous local and foreign content streaming.

With this function enabled, your sensitive data can benefit from enhanced digital protection without sacrificing speed on other apps or web pages.

Additionally, if you’re having trouble getting connected to printers or other LAN devices, split tunneling can help negate those difficulties.

Lastly, it’ll make it easier for you to stream content blocked off in other locations while also accessing your local network; no need to continually switch between connection types.

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Benefits of Using NordVPN’s Split Tunnel Feature

NordVPN offers an intuitive and easy way to set up a split tunnel protocol, allowing users to customize exactly which types of data should go through their encrypted tunnel. This gives users more control over their privacy while still getting all the benefits of using a VPN.

  • NordVPN’s servers are all located in different countries: so you can further improve your security and anonymity by routing your data through multiple locations.
  • Great for multitasking: NordVPN’s split tunnel feature allows you to manage multiple network activities simultaneously.
  • Increased security and privacy: By segmenting your traffic, you can ensure that the most sensitive data is handled securely.
  • More efficient data usage: With NordVPN’s split tunnel feature, you can selectively send specific applications through an encrypted tunnel while the rest pass unencrypted.
  • Customizable traffic routing: You can customize which applications are routed through which regions or networks.
  • Improved performance and speed: With this feature, you’ll be able to distribute your bandwidth between different applications and servers.

Setup and Usage Instructions for Setting Up a NordVPN Split Tunnel

To get started on setting up your own split tunnel with NordVPN, follow these steps:

  • Head to the “Settings” tab in the left sidebar of your NordVPN app.
  • Select “Split Tunneling” from the options presented.
  • Check off the apps or websites you want to be excluded from being routed through the VPN (e.g., Netflix or gaming apps).
  • Click “Apply” to save your changes – you’re done.
NordVPN settings menu
Select “Split tunneling” from the main settings menu.
NordVPN enable split tunelling options
Click to toggle the Split tunneling slider to the “on” position
NordVPN split tunneling apps
Select your chosen app(s) and connect to any of NordVPN’s vast array of servers!

How to make sure NordVPN split tunneling is working correctly?

Before you can access the extra speed benefits and other advantages of NordVPN’s split tunneling application, you must be sure it is correctly set up.

To make sure your tunneling is running correctly, here are some simple steps to follow:

  1. To enable NordVPN’s split tunneling feature, ensure your primary browser is turned off from the VPN tunnel.
  2. Go to www.dnsleaktest.com using your default web browser. If you can see your IP address, then split tunneling functions correctly.
  3. To guarantee the success of this particular feature, it is suggested to enable a VPN connection and run a DNS leak test with the primary browser. If the IP address changes, you can be sure that this process works without issue.

Does NordVPN have split tunneling on Mac?

Yes, NordVPN offers split tunneling for Mac devices. This feature allows users to control which applications or websites send their data through the encrypted VPN connection and which applications bypass the virtual private network entirely.

Split tunneling gives Mac users extra flexibility when securely connecting to the internet and protecting their online data and activities.

Potential Risks Associated With Using a NordVPN Split Tunnel

  • Increased risk of data leaks: If an application or site isn’t adequately secured, sending unencrypted traffic over it can expose sensitive data.
  • Overloaded networks: By routing multiple applications through a single connection, you could overload the network, leading to slow speeds and delays.
  • Potential compatibility issues: Certain applications may not be compatible with NordVPN’s split tunnel feature and could cause connection disruptions.
  • Vulnerability to malicious actors: As the traffic is split between encrypted and unencrypted connections, malicious entities could exploit these loopholes to gain access to your data.

Conclusion – Is NordVPN Split Tunneling Worth The Risk?

Ultimately, whether or not setting up a split tunnel protocol is right for you will depend on how comfortable you are with taking on additional risks when keeping your private data safe online.

Overall, NordVPN’s split tunnel feature is an excellent tool for multitasking, improved performance and increased security. However, it comes with potential risks that should be considered before using the feature.

Weighing the benefits against the potential risks can help you decide if NordVPN’s split tunnel feature is worth it for your needs.