7 Best VPNs With Split Tunneling App And URL Based Options

Yes, here’s a quick, practical guide to the best VPNs that offer split tunneling and URL-based routing. This post gives you real-world tips, feature comparisons, and practical setups so you can protect your privacy while keeping your favorite apps fast and connected. Below you’ll find a mix of list items, quick-start steps, and side-by-side checks to help you pick the right one for your needs.

Useful resources and URLs un clickable text, plain text:
Apple Website – apple.com
Netflix Help Center – help.netflix.com
Wikipedia – en.wikipedia.org
NordVPN – nordvpn.com
ExpressVPN – expressvpn.com
Surfshark – surfshark.com
Proton VPN – protonvpn.com
Private Internet Access – privacypoi.com

Introduction
7 best VPNs with split tunneling app and url based options: split tunneling is the feature that lets you decide which apps or URLs go through the VPN and which go directly to the internet. If you’re trying to stream, game, or work, you want a VPN that makes this easy and reliable. In this guide, you’ll find: Prime video not working with vpn heres how to fix it

Quick definitions of split tunneling and URL-based routing
A clear, side-by-side comparison of top providers
Real-world setup steps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
Tips to balance speed and security without breaking your workflow
Quick wins: how to test if your split tunneling works and how to fix common issues

What split tunneling and URL-based routing actually mean

Split tunneling: You pick which apps or services use the VPN and which bypass it. This helps with speed for gaming or streaming and access to local resources printers, local networks.
URL-based routing: You route specific websites through the VPN while keeping other sites outside the VPN for faster access or to access local content.

Why you should consider these features

You keep your privacy where it matters web browsing, sensitive apps without slowing down everything.
You can access geo-restricted streams while still using local services.
It reduces data overhead and can save battery on mobile devices.

Top 7 VPNs with split tunneling and URL-based options in-depth

NordVPN

Split tunneling: Yes, with app-based and domain-based options on supported platforms.
URL-based routing: Supported in some configurations via custom routing.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Large server network, robust security, reliable split tunneling controls for power users.
Practical tip: Use app-based split tunneling for streaming apps, and route banking or work apps through the VPN for extra privacy.
Real-world use case: You’re gaming with friends on a regional server but want your browser to stay on your home IP for local services.

ExpressVPN

Split tunneling: Yes, mainly by app on desktop and some mobile configurations.
URL-based routing: Possible with manual routing setups on certain platforms; not as straightforward as some competitors.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Consistent performance, strong kill switch, and a straightforward interface for toggling split tunneling.
Practical tip: Create separate profiles for streaming and everyday browsing to avoid confusion.
Real-world use case: You want to watch a show on a streaming service not available in your region while your other apps don’t use the VPN.

Surfshark

Split tunneling: Yes, on Windows, Android, and macOS with per-application controls.
URL-based routing: Supports route rules and DNS-based routing options in some versions.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Budget-friendly with unlimited devices, straightforward split tunneling setup, solid performance.
Practical tip: Use URL-based routing for specific sites you need to access in their local form banking or local services while keeping rest on VPN.
Real-world use case: You’re traveling and want to keep your banking app on VPN while streaming on your local region on the same device.

Private Internet Access PIA

Split tunneling: Yes, with app-based controls on desktop.
URL-based routing: Available via advanced settings and custom rules.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Highly customizable, transparent privacy stance, strong price-to-feature value.
Practical tip: Use application-based split tunneling for sensitive apps like mail or work portals; route video streaming through VPN if you’re in a region-limited network.
Real-world use case: You’re on a strict corporate network but want to access personal media servers at home securely.

ProtonVPN

Split tunneling: Yes, with advanced settings on desktop; mobile support varies by version.
URL-based routing: Available through custom configuration and DNS-based routing on certain plans.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Strong privacy orientation, transparency, and strong encryption.
Practical tip: For business use, keep the VPN on for work apps and disable for non-sensitive browsing to save bandwidth.
Real-world use case: You need privacy-first browsing while still accessing personal cloud storage outside the VPN.

VyprVPN

Split tunneling: Available on desktop platforms; mobile options may be limited.
URL-based routing: Custom rules can route specific sites or services through VPN.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: Independent VPN with its own Chameleon protocol for extra encryption, reliable performance.
Practical tip: Use split tunneling to protect your login credentials in your browser while gaming or streaming outside VPN.
Real-world use case: You want to bypass throttling from your ISP for specific apps while keeping others private.

CyberGhost

Split tunneling: Available on desktop, with app-based controls for chosen apps.
URL-based routing: DNS-based routing options can be configured on certain platforms.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Why it’s good: User-friendly, good for beginners, solid streaming compatibility.
Practical tip: Set up a “work” profile that routes work apps through VPN and “home” profile for local browsing.
Real-world use case: You’re a student using campus networks and want your streaming apps to run through VPN while your browser stays local.

How to pick the right VPN for split tunneling and URL-based options

Check platform support: Some features are platform-specific Windows vs macOS vs Android vs iOS.
Look for per-app or per-URL controls: If you need precise control, prioritize providers with per-application split tunneling and URL-based routing.
Consider server coverage and speed: Split tunneling is only useful if your VPN is fast and stable.
Read real-user reviews: Look for reports on whether split tunneling works reliably on mobile vs desktop.
Test with your use case: If you’re streaming, ensure the streaming app routes through VPN but your launcher or game routes outside.

Setup guides by platform T Mobile Hotspot Not Working with VPN Here’s What’s Really Going On and How to Fix It

Windows

Step 1: Install the VPN app and sign in.
Step 2: Go to Settings > Split Tunneling or App Exclusions and enable per-app or domain-based rules.
Step 3: Add the apps you want to route through the VPN. For URL-based routing, look for DNS or network routing rules and add the domains you want to route through VPN.
Step 4: Test by visiting geolocation-restricted content in a browser while a streaming app is routed through VPN.
Quick tip: Use kill switch to prevent leaks if the VPN connection drops.

MacOS

Step 1: Install the VPN app.
Step 2: Open Preferences and locate Split Tunneling.
Step 3: Enable per-app routing and add your chosen apps.
Step 4: For URL-based routing, configure DNS routes or manual routing rules if supported.
Quick tip: macOS tends to be picky about DNS leaks—enable DNS leak protection and test with online tools.

Android

Step 1: Install the VPN app and grant necessary permissions.
Step 2: Find Split Tunneling in the app settings.
Step 3: Add apps you want to route through VPN; enable URL-based routing if available.
Step 4: Test on-the-go by streaming on a TV app while other apps connect directly to the internet.

IOS

Step 1: Install the VPN profile from the app.
Step 2: Access the app’s split tunneling settings note: iOS support can be more limited due to iOS restrictions.
Step 3: Configure per-app VPN routing where possible.
Step 4: Confirm there are no leaks with a trusted test site.

Real-world test cases and best practices Hotstar Not Working With VPN Here’s How To Fix It: VPNs, Streams, And Quick Fixes

Streaming while gaming: Route streaming apps through VPN for geo content while gaming stays outside to reduce latency.
Work-from-anywhere: Route work apps through VPN for security; route social apps outside to save bandwidth.
Privacy-first browsing: Route your browser through VPN and keep local apps outside if you need quick access to local resources.
DNS and IP leaks: Always enable the VPN’s kill switch and DNS leak protection; test with tools likeiple test sites to ensure no leaks.

Performance considerations

Server load matters: A nearby server reduces latency; use automatic server selection or a manual choice with a fast nearby location.
Protocol choice: WireGuard generally offers better speed and reliability; OpenVPN is more widely compatible but can be slower.
Device impact: On mobile devices, split tunneling can save battery and data if configured properly.

Security and privacy notes

Trust and transparency: Choose providers with clear privacy policies and independent audits.
Data logging: Even with split tunneling, ensure only non-sensitive data is exposed outside the VPN when needed.
End-to-end encryption: Ensure the VPN uses strong encryption and modern protocols.

Key statistics and trends as of 2026

Global VPN market has continued to grow, with more users adopting split tunneling for better performance.
More providers are offering per-app routing as a standard feature on desktop, with expanding mobile support.
Users report improved streaming experience when splitting tunneling is used correctly, but misconfigurations can cause leaks.

Table: Quick feature snapshot

VPN	Split Tunneling	URL-Based Routing	Platform Coverage	Best Use Case
NordVPN	App + domain-based	Partial	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Streaming + privacy balance
ExpressVPN	App-based	Possible advanced	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Easy-to-use split tunneling for everyday use
Surfshark	App-based	DNS-based options	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Budget-friendly, multiple devices
PIA	App-based	Advanced rules	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Customizable, privacy-focused
ProtonVPN	Desktop advanced	Custom rules	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Privacy-first, transparent
VyprVPN	Desktop rules	Custom routing	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Independent, secure
CyberGhost	App-based	DNS-based options	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Beginner-friendly, streaming ready

Common issues and quick fixes Github copilot not working with vpn heres how to fix it

Issue: VPN disconnects and leaks IP.
Fix: Enable Kill Switch, verify DNS leak protection, use a steady server.
Issue: Split tunneling doesn’t apply to a specific app.
Fix: Re-check app list, ensure you’re on a supported platform, update the VPN app.
Issue: URL-based routing not applying to certain sites.
Fix: Revisit DNS-based routing rules, ensure the domain is correct, flush DNS cache.
Issue: Slow speeds on VPN.
Fix: Switch to a nearby server, choose a faster protocol WireGuard, test during different times of day.

Tips for advanced users

Create separate profiles: One for work, one for streaming, one for gaming. Each with its own split tunneling setup.
Test every change: After adjusting settings, run a quick test by visiting a geolocation site and launching a streaming app to confirm routing behavior.
Use trusted DNS: Consider setting your own trusted DNS like 1.1.1.1 to avoid DNS leaks when the VPN is off for certain apps.

Case studies and real-world scenarios

Case 1: A student uses a campus network to access local content but routes their streaming app through the VPN to access a regional library catalog not available locally.
Case 2: A remote worker routes their work email and document apps through the VPN, while social media and video apps connect directly to avoid lag.
Case 3: A gamer uses split tunneling to route the game through a VPN to reduce ping to a regional server, while leaving streaming apps outside to avoid buffering.

Security-conscious user checklist

Is the VPN using a modern protocol WireGuard, OpenVPN with strong ciphers?
Is the kill switch enabled on all devices?
Are there DNS leak protections active?
Do you know which apps or sites are routed through the VPN?

Frequently asked questions

Table of Contents

How does split tunneling work at a practical level?

Split tunneling lets you decide which traffic goes through the VPN and which traffic uses your regular internet connection. It helps balance privacy with performance. Nordvpn extension edge guide complet pour securiser votre navigation sur microsoft edge en 2026 etoptimisation SEO

Can I use split tunneling on mobile devices?

Yes, many VPNs offer app-based split tunneling on Android and iOS, though the level of control can vary by platform and app version.

Is URL-based routing the same as domain-based routing?

URL-based routing uses specific URLs to determine traffic routing, while domain-based routing looks at domain names. They can overlap depending on the VPN’s features.

Is split tunneling safe?

When configured correctly and with a trusted VPN, split tunneling is safe. Always enable features like kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Which VPN is best for streaming with split tunneling?

Providers like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN generally offer strong streaming performance with split tunneling controls.

How do I test if split tunneling is working?

Test by routing a streaming app through the VPN and a browser site outside the VPN. Check your IP address on each app to verify the routing behavior. How to Log Everyone Out of NordVPN: Quick Guide, Tips, and Best Practices

Can I use split tunneling to bypass bandwidth throttling?

Sometimes, yes. Route bandwidth-heavy apps like streaming through VPN if your ISP throttles those services, but test carefully to ensure stability.

Do all VPNs support per-app split tunneling on Windows?

Most do, but macOS and mobile platforms can be limited. Check each provider’s platform support matrix before buying.

Can I set up per-URL rules on mobile?

Mobile support for URL-based rules is more limited; desktop often has stronger options for per-URL routing.

How do I avoid IP leaks when VPN connection drops?

Always enable the kill switch and DNS leak protection. Regularly test leaks with online tools.

Would you like, in addition, a step-by-step practical setup video script for one or two of these VPNs, tailored to Windows and Android, including on-screen prompts and common pitfalls? How to put Surfshark VPN on Your TV Unlock Global Streaming Boost Privacy

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