Surfshark

How to set up Split Tunneling (Bypasser) on Surfshark

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-19
Quick Answer

Surfshark's Bypasser (split tunneling) allows you to route specific apps or websites outside the VPN tunnel while keeping others protected. You can configure it through the app's settings by selecting either app-based or website-based bypassing.

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Prerequisites

  • Active Surfshark subscription
  • Surfshark app installed on Windows, Android, or iOS
  • Administrator privileges on Windows
  • Basic understanding of VPN functionality

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open Surfshark and Access Settings

Launch the Surfshark application on your device. Click on the Settings gear icon located in the top-right corner of the app interface. If you're on mobile, tap the hamburger menu (three lines) and select Settings.
Make sure you're logged into your Surfshark account before proceeding with the setup.
2

Navigate to Bypasser Settings

In the Settings menu, scroll down and locate the VPN settings section. Click on Bypasser or Split tunneling depending on your app version. On some versions, this may be found under Advanced settings.
The Bypasser feature is available on Windows, Android, and iOS apps but not on macOS or browser extensions.
3

Enable Bypasser Feature

Toggle the Bypasser switch to the ON position. You'll see the option become active with a confirmation that the feature is now enabled. The interface will expand to show configuration options.
4

Choose Bypass Mode

Select your preferred bypass mode:
  • Apps - Route specific applications outside the VPN tunnel
  • Websites - Route specific websites and domains outside the VPN tunnel
Click on your preferred option to proceed with configuration.
App-based bypassing is more granular, while website-based bypassing is easier to manage for web browsing.
5

Add Apps or Websites to Bypass List

For Apps: Click Add apps and select applications from the list or browse for executable files. Check the boxes next to apps you want to bypass the VPN.

For Websites: Click Add websites and enter the domain names (e.g., netflix.com, banking-site.com). Add each website on a separate line or use the plus button.
You can add both individual apps and entire website domains. Wildcards are supported for websites (e.g., *.example.com).
6

Configure Bypass Rules

Review your bypass list and make adjustments as needed. You can:
  • Remove items by clicking the X or Delete button next to each entry
  • Add additional apps or websites using the Add button
  • Toggle individual items on/off without removing them completely
Start with a few essential apps or websites to test the functionality before adding more entries.
7

Apply Settings and Test

Click Save or Apply to confirm your Bypasser configuration. Connect to a VPN server by clicking the Connect button. Test the split tunneling by:
  • Opening bypassed apps/websites and checking if they use your real IP
  • Using non-bypassed apps to confirm they're using the VPN IP
  • Visiting whatismyipaddress.com in different contexts
Use an IP checker website to verify that bypassed traffic shows your real location while protected traffic shows the VPN server location.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Bypasser option is greyed out or not visible

Ensure you're using a supported device (Windows, Android, or iOS). Update your Surfshark app to the latest version and restart the application. On Windows, run the app as administrator.

Apps are not bypassing the VPN despite being in the list

Completely close and restart the bypassed applications after configuring Bypasser. On Windows, end the process in Task Manager and relaunch the app. Verify the correct executable file is selected.

Websites are still going through the VPN tunnel

Clear your browser cache and cookies, then restart the browser. Ensure you're entering the correct domain format (e.g., example.com not https://www.example.com). Try using incognito/private browsing mode.

Split tunneling stops working after system restart

Disable and re-enable the Bypasser feature in Surfshark settings. Check if Windows firewall or antivirus software is interfering with the VPN connection. Reconnect to the VPN server and verify the bypass list is still intact.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official Surfshark website before purchasing.
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