NordVPN Split Tunnelling: Complete UK Guide to Setup and Benefits (2026)

NordVPN split tunnelling is a powerful feature that lets you choose which apps or websites route through the VPN tunnel while others use your regular internet connection. Ideal for UK users wanting faster speeds for local tasks like banking or streaming BBC iPlayer, while securing sensitive traffic. This guide covers everything from basics to setup.

What is VPN Split Tunnelling?

Split tunnelling, sometimes called split tunneling, allows selective VPN routing. Instead of all traffic going through the VPN (full tunnel), you decide per app or IP/domain.

Bypass mode: Routes selected traffic outside the VPN for speed.
Tunnel mode (NordVPN-specific): Forces only selected apps through the VPN.

This balances privacy and performance. For UK households with multiple devices, it’s perfect for gaming on UK servers without lag while protecting torrenting apps.

NordVPN excels here with user-friendly controls, unlike some rivals lacking mobile support.

Why Use NordVPN Split Tunnelling in the UK?

UK internet users face strict data laws (GDPR) and geo-blocks. Split tunnelling helps:

Stream UK Netflix or ITV Hub at full speed via your ISP.
Secure only email or banking apps through NordVPN’s no-logs UK servers.
Reduce battery drain on mobiles by excluding non-sensitive apps.
Bypass throttling for high-bandwidth tasks like 4K streaming.

With NordVPN’s 6,400+ servers (including 440+ in the UK), you get reliable speeds up to 950 Mbps.

Pro tip: Pair with NordLynx protocol for optimal split tunnelling performance.

How Does NordVPN Split Tunnelling Work?

NordVPN offers two modes:

Bypass VPN: Exclude apps/IPs from the tunnel (default for most).
Only allow VPN: Route only selected apps through VPN (great for privacy-focused setups).

It works on a per-app basis (Windows/Android) or IP/domain lists. Changes apply instantly without reconnecting.

Limitations: Not available on macOS/iOS due to Apple restrictions, but Android and Windows fully support it.

Step-by-Step: Enable Split Tunnelling on NordVPN Windows

Download and install NordVPN from the official site (UK servers optimised).
Open the app and log in.
Connect to a UK server first.
Click the gear icon > Split tunnelling.
Toggle Enable split tunnelling.
Choose Bypass VPN or Only allow VPN.
Add apps (e.g., Chrome for local browsing) via Add apps.
Apply changes—done!

Test by visiting whatismyipaddress.com in an excluded browser (shows real IP) vs. included one (VPN IP).

Setting Up NordVPN Split Tunnelling on Android

Android users love this for mobile flexibility:

Install NordVPN from Google Play.
Connect to a server.
Tap profile icon > Split tunnelling.
Enable and select mode.
Pick apps like YouTube (bypass) or banking apps (tunnel).
Save and test.

Saves data and battery—crucial for UK commuters on 5G.

NordVPN Split Tunnelling on Other Devices

Linux: Beta support via terminal commands.
macOS/iOS: Unavailable natively; use NordVPN’s SOCKS5 proxy or SmartDNS as alternatives for selective bypassing.
Routers: Enable via DD-WRT/OpenWRT firmware for whole-network split (advanced).

For iOS, route all traffic and use app-level proxies if needed.

Pros and Cons of NordVPN Split Tunnelling

Pros

Speed boost: Local traffic avoids VPN overhead (up to 30% faster).
Flexibility: Customise per app/domain.
Battery/data savings: Mobile-friendly.
UK streaming: Access iPlayer/Channel 4 without VPN slowdowns.

Cons

Security risk: Bypassed traffic lacks encryption—avoid for public Wi-Fi.
Platform gaps: No macOS/iOS.
Setup learning curve: New users may need trial/error.

Overall, pros outweigh for power users.

Best Use Cases for UK NordVPN Users

Streaming hybrid: Tunnel torrent apps, bypass Netflix UK.
Gaming: Exclude Steam/UK servers for low ping.
Work-from-home: Secure Zoom/Office 365, bypass local printers.
Travel: Bypass UK banking apps while abroad (use tunnel for others).

Combine with Threat Protection for malware blocking on bypassed traffic.

Unsure if NordVPN fits? Compare VPNs or take our quick quiz for personalised picks.

NordVPN Split Tunnelling vs Competitors

Feature	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Windows	Yes	No	Yes
Android	Yes	Yes	Yes
macOS	No	No	Partial
Modes	2	1	1
Ease	High	Medium	High

NordVPN leads in versatility.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Apps not listed: Relaunch NordVPN post-install.
Slow speeds: Switch to NordLynx, exclude bandwidth hogs.
Not working: Update app, restart device.
UK IP leaks: Use full tunnel for sensitive tasks.

Contact NordVPN’s 24/7 live chat for UK-specific help.

Is Split Tunnelling Safe?

Yes, if used wisely. Encrypt only what needs it, but enable kill switch for full protection. NordVPN’s audited no-logs policy adds trust.

Conclusion

NordVPN split tunnelling empowers UK users to tailor VPN use perfectly. Setup takes minutes, benefits last. Start your 30-day money-back trial today for risk-free testing.

Optimise your setup and stay secure—your internet, your rules.