How to configure split tunneling on ExpressVPN

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

Split tunneling on ExpressVPN allows you to route specific apps or websites through the VPN while others use your regular internet connection. This feature is available on Windows, Android, and router apps through the settings menu.

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Prerequisites

Active ExpressVPN subscription
ExpressVPN app installed on your device
Administrator privileges on Windows or root access on Android
Basic understanding of VPN concepts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Open ExpressVPN and access settings

Launch the ExpressVPN application on your device. Click the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner, then select Options on Windows or Settings on Android.

Make sure you're disconnected from the VPN before configuring split tunneling settings.

Navigate to split tunneling options

In the settings menu, look for General tab on Windows or scroll down to find VPN Protocol section on Android. Click on Split Tunneling or Network Protection depending on your platform.

Enable split tunneling feature

Toggle the Enable Split Tunneling switch to the ON position. You'll see options for Do not allow selected apps to use the VPN or Only allow selected apps to use the VPN on Windows, or similar options on Android.

Choose the first option if you want most traffic through VPN with exceptions, or the second if you only want specific apps protected.

Select apps for split tunneling

Click Manage Apps or Add Applications. Browse through your installed applications and check the boxes next to apps you want to include in your split tunneling configuration. Common choices include:

Gaming applications for better ping
Banking apps that block VPN traffic
Local streaming services
Video conferencing tools

Add apps gradually and test connectivity to ensure they work as expected with your split tunneling configuration.

Configure website-based split tunneling (Windows only)

If available, click on the Websites tab within split tunneling settings. Add specific domains by typing them in the text field, such as netflix.com or banking.example.com. Click Add after entering each domain.

Use the root domain without 'www' prefix for broader coverage of subdomains.

Apply and test the configuration

Click OK or Save to apply your split tunneling settings. Connect to an ExpressVPN server by clicking the power button in the main interface. Test your configuration by checking your IP address on both protected and unprotected apps.

Use whatismyipaddress.com in both your regular browser and apps you've excluded to verify split tunneling is working.

Monitor and adjust settings

After testing, return to split tunneling settings if adjustments are needed. You can add or remove apps by clicking Manage Apps again. Monitor app performance and connectivity to ensure optimal configuration for your needs.

Keep a note of which apps work better with or without VPN protection for future reference.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Split tunneling option not available

Split tunneling is only available on Windows, Android, and some router firmware. Update your ExpressVPN app to the latest version, or check if your subscription plan includes this feature.

Apps not respecting split tunneling rules

Restart the affected applications after enabling split tunneling. Some apps cache network settings and need to be fully closed and reopened. Try logging out and back into the ExpressVPN app.

Banking or local services still blocked

Ensure you've selected the correct option to exclude these apps from the VPN tunnel. Clear the app's cache and cookies, then restart the application to refresh its network configuration.

Gaming performance not improved

Verify that your gaming applications are properly excluded from the VPN tunnel. Close and restart games after applying split tunneling settings. Consider adding both the game launcher and the game executable to the exclusion list.

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