How to set up split tunneling on NordVPN

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

Split tunneling on NordVPN allows you to route specific apps through the VPN while others use your regular internet connection. Enable it in the NordVPN app settings and configure which applications should bypass the VPN tunnel.

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Prerequisites

Active NordVPN subscription
NordVPN app installed on Windows, Android, or supported router
Administrative privileges on your device
Understanding of which apps need VPN protection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Open NordVPN and access settings

Launch the NordVPN application on your device. Click the Settings gear icon in the top-right corner of the app interface. On mobile devices, tap the Profile tab at the bottom, then select Settings.

Ensure you're logged into your NordVPN account before proceeding with configuration.

Navigate to split tunneling options

In the Settings menu, scroll down to find the Advanced section. Click on Split Tunneling or App Split Tunneling depending on your platform. On Android, this may be listed under VPN Connection settings.

Split tunneling is currently available on Windows, Android, and some router configurations only.

Enable split tunneling feature

Toggle the Split Tunneling switch to the On position. You'll see two options appear:

Disable VPN for selected apps - Apps you choose will bypass the VPN
Enable VPN only for selected apps - Only chosen apps will use the VPN

Select the option that matches your needs.

Choose 'Disable VPN for selected apps' if you want most traffic protected but need specific apps to use your local connection.

Add applications to split tunnel

Click Add Apps or the + button. Browse through your installed applications list and select the apps you want to include in your split tunneling configuration. Common choices include:

Banking apps (bypass VPN)
Local streaming services (bypass VPN)
Gaming applications (bypass VPN for better ping)
Torrent clients (VPN only)

Click Add or Done to confirm your selections.

You can add both desktop applications and system processes to your split tunneling list.

Configure network-based split tunneling (Windows only)

On Windows, you can also set up split tunneling by IP address or website. In the Split Tunneling settings, click Add Website or IP. Enter specific URLs like netflix.com or IP addresses like 192.168.1.1 that should bypass the VPN connection.

Use IP-based split tunneling for services that don't have dedicated applications but need local access.

Test your split tunneling configuration

Connect to a NordVPN server by clicking Quick Connect or selecting a specific server location. Open the apps you configured for split tunneling and verify they're working as expected. Use whatismyipaddress.com in different browsers or apps to confirm which ones show your VPN IP and which show your real IP address.

Test immediately after setup to ensure critical apps like banking or work applications function properly.

Manage and modify split tunnel settings

Return to Settings > Split Tunneling anytime to modify your configuration. You can:

Add or remove applications from the list
Switch between VPN bypass and VPN-only modes
Temporarily disable split tunneling without losing your app list

Changes take effect immediately without needing to reconnect to the VPN.

Regularly review your split tunneling list as you install or uninstall applications to maintain optimal security.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Split tunneling option not visible in settings

Ensure you're using a supported platform (Windows or Android). Update your NordVPN app to the latest version. Split tunneling is not available on iOS, macOS, or Linux clients due to platform limitations.

Apps not respecting split tunnel configuration

Restart the affected applications after configuring split tunneling. Some apps cache network settings and need to be fully closed and reopened. Also verify the app is correctly added to your split tunneling list.

Banking or local services still blocked with split tunneling

Ensure you've selected Disable VPN for selected apps mode and added the specific applications to bypass the VPN. Some services may also need to be added by IP address rather than application.

VPN connection drops when split tunneling is enabled

Disable split tunneling temporarily and test your connection. If stable, re-enable and reduce the number of apps in your split tunnel list. Some security software may conflict with split tunneling features.

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