Learn how split tunneling works on UK VPNs, when to use it, and which providers (including NordVPN and Surfshark) support it. Set up streaming, banking and local apps—all at once.
Split tunneling is a VPN feature that lets you choose which apps, websites or devices use the VPN connection—and which use your normal internet connection. Without split tunneling, all your traffic goes through the VPN. With it, you keep some traffic private and global, while other data (such as internet banking, BBC iPlayer or local shopping) stays local and fast.
Good to know: Not every VPN offers split tunneling, and features can differ between desktop, mobile and router setups. See below for the best UK VPNs with split tunneling support in 2026.
By default, a VPN client encrypts all data from your device and routes it through a secure server. Split tunneling lets you define “rules” at the app or website level, so only selected traffic goes through the VPN, and the rest is untouched. There are two common types:
Split tunneling is ideal for streaming US, Canadian or other foreign catalogues while keeping your UK news, online banking and other apps local and undisturbed.
Split tunneling support varies. Below, we compare top providers tested in the UK. Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide robust split tunneling that works on Windows, Android and—with some extra steps—routers or certain smart TVs.
| VPN | Windows | macOS | Android | iOS | Routers | Works in UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Not yet | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Via manual setup | ✅ Yes |
| Surfshark | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ On some firmware | ✅ Yes |
| ExpressVPN | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (custom firmware) | ✅ Yes |
| Proton VPN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Only on latest app | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| CyberGhost | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
NordVPN’s split tunneling is built into its Windows and Android apps. Select which apps or programs bypass the VPN, such as your UK streaming or banking app—while all other activity (browsing, BitTorrent, Netflix, etc.) stays protected. The interface is clean and easy to use, with clear toggles.
Surfshark’s split tunneling feature (“Bypasser”) is available on Windows and Android. Specify apps or websites to exclude from VPN protection, so you can stream on one browser tab and bank, shop or cast devices on the local network in another. Surfshark covers unlimited devices (phones, laptops, tablets and more) under one account.
If you want to keep your real UK IP for shopping, NHS, or local government sites, but unlock foreign streaming and privacy elsewhere, split tunneling offers the best of both worlds.
Some banking apps (Monzo, Barclays, Santander, etc.) may block access if a VPN IP is detected. Using split tunneling means these apps use your normal UK connection—reducing lockouts and verification requests.
Get the full power of split tunneling with our top UK VPN picks. Both NordVPN and Surfshark support app-based split tunneling for streaming, banking or working from home. Try them risk-free with a 30-day guarantee.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission. Prices and feature support correct as of June 2026.