What is Split Tunneling and Why You Need It
Learn what VPN split tunneling is, how it works, and why AceVPN's website-level split tunneling gives you more control than traditional app-based solutions.
Split tunneling is a VPN feature that lets you choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which uses your regular internet connection. Instead of routing everything through the VPN, you get granular control.
How Traditional Split Tunneling Works
Most VPNs offer app-based split tunneling. You select entire applications — like Chrome or Netflix — to route through the VPN. Everything that app does goes through the encrypted tunnel.
The limitation? You can't control traffic at a finer level. If Chrome goes through the VPN, ALL websites in Chrome use the VPN — even local ones that don't need it.
AceVPN's Website Split Tunneling
AceVPN takes split tunneling to the next level with website-level control. Instead of choosing apps, you choose specific domains:
- Route streaming sites through VPN for geo-unblocking
- Keep banking sites on your direct connection for speed
- Access local services without VPN overhead
- All within the same browser, simultaneously
Why You Need It
Speed optimization: Local sites load at full speed while only international traffic uses the VPN.
Simultaneous access: Access geo-restricted content AND local services at the same time, in the same browser window.
Reduced bandwidth: Only encrypt what needs encrypting, saving bandwidth and battery life on mobile devices.
How to Set It Up
- Open AceVPN and connect to a server
- Go to Settings > Split Tunneling > Website Rules
- Add domains you want to route through VPN
- Changes take effect immediately — no need to reconnect
Website split tunneling is available on all AceVPN plans and works on iOS, Android, and macOS.
