Avoid VPN Restriction with Speedify’s Bypass Feature
Some apps work better outside a VPN. Split tunneling is the setting that lets you choose which apps send their traffic through the encrypted VPN and which apps use your internet connection directly.
Speedify encrypts your traffic like a VPN and runs that traffic across Wi-Fi, 4G/5G cellular data, wired Ethernet, Starlink and other internet connections at once, so nothing has to slow down. Speedify calls its split tunneling control Bypass.
Read on for what split tunneling is good for, how to switch split tunneling on, and how Speedify’s Bypass setting lets a video call or a banking app take the route you pick for that app while the rest of your traffic stays private.
Should you have a backup 4G, 5G, Starlink, or cable internet connection?
Yes — every internet connection goes down, including Starlink, which drops for ~34 minutes a day on average. A backup connection from a different provider means one outage never takes you fully offline. The most common options are a 4G/5G cellular hotspot, a cable or DSL line, or a second satellite dish.
4G/5G cellular
Works anywhere. Just a SIM or hotspot — no installation needed.
Learn more →Cable / DSL
Best for fixed locations. Different network, so outages rarely overlap.
Learn more →Second Starlink
Adds redundancy and throughput for remote sites or heavy usage.
Learn more →Speedify bonds any two connections into one — automatic failover, more speed, no dropped calls.
Try Speedify free →What is Split Tunneling VPN?
Split tunneling is a sophisticated VPN feature that divides your internet traffic into two separate paths. Instead of routing all your data through the VPN tunnel, split tunneling allows you to choose which applications, websites, or IP addresses use the VPN connection while directing other traffic through your standard internet connection.
Think of it as creating two lanes on a highway: one lane goes through a secure, encrypted tunnel (your VPN), while the other lane takes the direct route to your destination. This selective routing gives you unprecedented control over your digital footprint and network performance.
When Using a Split Tunneling VPN Becomes Essential
Split tunneling VPN proves invaluable in several scenarios that modern internet users frequently encounter:
Accessing Local Services: Many streaming platforms, banking websites, and local services block VPN traffic. Split tunneling allows you to access these services directly while keeping other activities protected through your VPN connection.
Optimizing Network Performance: Bandwidth-intensive applications like video conferencing, gaming, or large file downloads can benefit from direct internet access, while sensitive activities like browsing or email remain encrypted through the VPN tunnel.
Workplace Compliance: Remote workers often need to access company resources through their local connection while maintaining privacy for personal browsing activities through a VPN.
Cost Management: Users with limited data plans can conserve VPN bandwidth by routing only essential traffic through the encrypted tunnel, reducing overall data consumption.
How to Set Up Split Tunnel VPN
Configuring split tunneling varies depending on your VPN provider and device, but the general process follows these steps:
Choose Your VPN Provider: Select a VPN service that offers robust split tunneling capabilities. Not all providers include this feature, so research is essential.
Install and Configure: Download your VPN client and locate the split tunneling settings, often found in advanced or connection settings. In Speedify, for example, it’s called Bypass.
Select Your Routing Method: Most VPN clients offer app-based splitting (choosing specific applications) or website-based splitting (selecting particular domains or IP addresses).
Configure Your Rules: Add applications or websites to your bypass list (for direct internet access) or your VPN list (for encrypted routing).
Test Your Configuration: Verify that your settings work correctly by checking IP addresses for different applications and ensuring proper traffic routing.
Why Speedify Stands Out for Split Tunneling
When it comes to VPN services with superior split tunneling capabilities, Speedify emerges as a top choice for both individual and professional users. Here’s why Speedify excels in this competitive market:
Intelligent Bypass Feature: Speedify’s bypass functionality goes beyond basic split tunneling. When Speedify’s smart engine detects a request to connect to one of the trusted streaming service providers, or other services that are known to block VPNs, it will appear on Speedify’s Dashboard. From there, you can confirm the service you want to go around Speedify. All other traffic will benefit from the secure and bonded Speedify VPN tunnel.
Channel Bonding Technology: Unlike traditional VPNs, Speedify can combine multiple internet connections (Starlink, Wi-Fi, 4G / 5G cellular, DSL and others) for the traffic that goes through the VPN tunnel, while also routing selected apps and services directly, providing both security and reliability for your internet.
Reliable Performance: Speedify’s infrastructure ensures consistent performance across both VPN and direct connections, maintaining optimal speeds for all your online activities.
Alex and the Speedify team are always exploring the latest in networking and security technology—like 5G, 6G, WiFi 7, laser and satellite internet—and sharing it in new discussion content across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn every week.
Got a tech question? Let's go deeper! Pop into Speedify Office Hours live every Wednesday at 10 AM Eastern. Speedify CEO Alex Gizis and our network engineers are standing by to break down your questions about networks, tech updates, and Speedify features.
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