Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are necessary tools for your privacy and security online. This statistic highlights the growing importance of VPNs. According to Statista, more than 31% of internet users now use a VPN to protect their personal data. But not all VPN features are created equal. Split tunneling stands out in this regard. It is one of the most useful but underutilized features. Especially iOS users almost neglect this useful feature. Let’s explore this feature further.
What is Split Tunneling?
Split tunneling offers you the power of choice. You can choose which apps use your iOS VPN connection and which ones use your regular internet connection with this system. Think of it as creating two separate roads for your data.
For example, let’s say you want to use your banking app and Netflix. Split tunneling helps you set different internet connections for each application. You can access your banking app with the secure VPN tunnel and Netflix with your regular internet connection for faster streaming.
Why Split Tunneling Matters on iOS?
Apple always prioritizes security. But its closed software ecosystem comes with certain limitations. Split tunneling was almost impossible on iOS devices previously. Now the system has evolved along with its users’ needs. With iOS 15 and the latest versions, you can access this feature from most VPN providers.
According to a major VPN service provider, split tunneling provides 35% better internet speed for non-VPN apps. This makes a massive difference when you are using streaming services or gaming.
Benefits of Split Tunneling
- Better Performance:
Your VPN encrypts your internet traffic for privacy. Encryption can slow down your connection significantly. Splitting your internet traffic between VPN and non-VPN apps makes everything run smoother and remarkably faster.
Let’s say you are video conferencing for work. Something comes up, and you have to download sensitive documents at the same time. Split tunneling lets you do both. Your video call can use your direct internet connection for better quality. And your sensitive file download can take place over your VPN for better security.
- Battery Consumption
A long-lasting battery is essential for all of us. VPN encryption consumes a lot of power. A 2023 study by mobile security researchers found that using full-time VPNs can cause more battery drain than split tunneling.
- Access to Local Services
Some streaming platforms and banking apps block VPN connections. Split tunneling lets you access these services. It also keeps the rest of your apps running smoothly.
How to Set Up Split Tunneling on iOS
The process varies by provider. Here is a general overview of the process:
- First, you need to update your iOS to the latest version available.
- Make sure you download a VPN app that has a split-tunneling feature.
- Open the VPN app and go to the split tunneling settings.
- Choose your preferences:
- Select apps that WILL use the VPN connection in the Include mode.
- Select the apps that you DON’T WANT to use the VPN connection in the Exclude mode.
- Make sure you save the settings before you connect your VPN.
Best Practices for Split Tunneling
According to a study by Kaspersky, mobile banking fraud increased by 22% last year. It only makes sense that you stay extra vigilant while using such applications. Apps with private data benefit greatly from the extra protection VPN offers. Make sure you use split tunneling for:
- Banking and other financial services
- Email Clients
- Messaging apps with private or sensitive conversations
- Shopping apps that contain your payment and personal information
You can skip tunneling for apps such as video or music streaming services, weather apps, and gaming. Such practices ensure your data remains safe while maintaining speed.
Final Thoughts
Split tunneling combines the advantages of both methods. It offers speed and security according to your preferences. Android provides more flexibility, but iOS users can still benefit from Split Tunneling.
Start by experimenting with a few apps. Check your battery life and connection speeds. You might be pleasantly surprised by the overall performance. Not forcing everything through your VPN tunnel has noticeable effects on your internet connection and speed.
Mobile security issues have risen significantly recently. And the increase has made VPN usage an essential part of everyday privacy. Advanced features like split tunneling will become standard practice for users worried about online privacy.
