Do you use a VPN? This little -known adjustment can transform your connection

The split-tunneling represents one of the most sophisticated features of VPNs. The principle? Allow users to rationalize their network traffic between secure VPN connection and direct access. This technology meets a growing need: maintaining security without sacrificing anything on online experience by maximizing performance. Unlike full tunneling that runs all traffic via the VPN server, the split-tunneling offers more granular control. In other words, the user can define which applications or websites use the encrypted tunnel, while the rest of the traffic transits directly by the local connection.

Split-tunneling works at the network layer and consists of an analysis of outgoing IP packets according to predefined rules. Basically, it is necessary to distinguish two routing modes: routing per application (APBASED) and by destination (road-based). The first identifies the system processes, the second operates by IP or domains addresses. With Split-Tunneling, it is possible-for example-to drive only sensitive collaborative tools (business messaging, professional cloud storage) via VPN, while retaining streaming services or system updates with direct access. This granularity avoids the congestion of VPN servers for non -critical traffic. So to take action? Connect to the administration interface of our NordVPN account. Click the setting button in the lower left corner of the window. In the navigation pane, point on Split Tunneling. Actuate on the cursor Split Tunneling To activate functionality. Unroll the connection type list and select Do not use VPN for selected applications. Then, with a click on the button Add applicationsselect the apps of your choice: Microsoft Teams, Webex, or Microsoft Outlook. Validate a client on Add the selection. It’s done !

A concrete impact on the latency of your connection

The main advantage of split-tunneling is materialized in the significant reduction in latency. Local or regional applications retain their native speed, while only connections requiring geographic or security protection pass through the VPN tunnel. However, this flexibility requires a fine understanding of network flows. Poor configuration can quickly create safety flaws, some sensitive traffic involuntarily escaping VPN protection.