full tunnel vpn

Full Tunnel VPN vs. Split Tunnel VPN: Key Differences

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PureVPNFull Tunnel VPN vs. Split Tunnel VPN: Key Differences

When you use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you have two main options for handling your internet traffic: full tunneling, which encrypts all your data, or split tunneling, which encrypts only part of it. 

Not sure which approach to use? In our full tunnel VPN vs. split tunnel VPN guide, we will explore what these two methods are and how they differ from one another to help you make the right decision. 

What is a Full Tunnel VPN?

A full tunnel VPN routes all your online traffic through a secure VPN tunnel, meaning that whether you are browsing websites, sending emails, or streaming videos, your entire connection is secured by the VPN. It is the default setup for most VPN services and provides comprehensive protection across all your internet activities. 

With a full tunnel VPN, you can simply turn on your VPN and know that all your data is end-to-end encrypted, keeping it safe from prying eyes. However, if you want to choose what gets encrypted and what does not, most VPN services on the market come with a feature known as split tunneling within their apps. 

What is a Split Tunnel VPN?

A split tunnel VPN lets you divide your internet traffic: some goes through the secure VPN, while the rest uses a regular, unencrypted connection, allowing for faster speeds and access to local network services because it reduces the load on the VPN.

For instance, you can choose to use the VPN for secure tasks like work emails and leave it off for activities that need a quick connection or local access, such as streaming local TV or playing online games. This way, you can optimise performance by avoiding the VPN’s encryption for activities that do not require it. 

However, while split tunneling offers greater flexibility and efficiency, it also means that any data not routed through the VPN could be more vulnerable to cyber threats. Plus, juggling both VPN and non-VPN connections can sometimes lead to technical hiccups.

Key Differences Between Full Tunnel and Split Tunnel VPN

The main difference between a full tunnel VPN and a split tunnel VPN is that a full tunnel VPN encrypts all your online activity, whereas a split tunnel VPN lets you choose which traffic is secured through the VPN and which connects directly to the internet. 

Check out the table below to understand how full tunnel vs. split tunnel VPN differ from each other:

AspectSplit Tunnel VPNFull Tunnel VPN
EncryptionEncrypts only selected parts of your trafficEncrypts all data
Internet AccessOnly chosen traffic goes through the VPN while the rest bypasses itAll traffic goes through the VPN
Security LevelLower for non-VPN traffic and higher for VPN trafficHigher due to all data being encrypted
Performance ImpactOften faster for non-VPN tasks due to less encryption loadCan be slower because all data is encrypted
Bandwidth ConsumptionLower as only important data uses the VPNHigher as all internet data passes through the VPN
User FlexibilityMore flexible; users can choose what to encryptMore restrictive; less flexibility in routing options
Local Network AccessibilityEasier access to local network resourcesLimited or no access to local network resources
ComplexityMore complex due to the need to specify what is or isn’t encryptedGenerally simpler to set up as it applies a uniform policy
Ideal ForUsers needing a balance between security and speed, or who need regular access to local network resourcesUsers needing maximum security and privacy

Full Tunnel VPN vs. Split Tunnel: Which is Better?

Split tunneling lets you decide which parts of your internet traffic need encryption, allowing you to secure sensitive activities while enjoying faster speeds for non-sensitive tasks or local services. On the other hand, a full tunnel VPN is ideal when your main priority is complete security, as it encrypts all your online traffic.

When to Use Full Tunnel VPN

  • You need maximum security for sensitive tasks: If you are handling confidential work files or transmitting private information, a full tunnel VPN ensures all data leaving your device is encrypted and secure.
  • You want to mask your online activity entirely: Whether it is for privacy reasons or to access region-locked content, a full tunnel VPN makes all your internet activity appear from a different location, providing enhanced anonymity.

When to Use Split Tunnel VPN

  • You need access to local network resources: If you want to use printers, file servers, or other local devices, split tunneling allows you to bypass the VPN for these activities.
  • You want better performance: By encrypting only selected traffic, split tunneling reduces the load on the VPN, resulting in faster speeds for non-VPN activities like streaming or gaming.
  • You are using apps or websites that block VPNs: Some services, like online banking, may restrict access when they detect a VPN. Split tunneling allows these services to connect through your regular internet connection while protecting your sensitive traffic.
  • You need simultaneous access to local and remote services: For example, you can securely access your company’s database while streaming a live event available only through your local ISP. Split tunneling lets you do both at the same time without compromising performance or security.

How to Use Split Tunneling with PureVPN

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use split tunneling with PureVPN:

  1. Subscribe to PureVPN and download the app for your device.
  1. Launch the PureVPN app and log in using your credentials.
  1. Go to Settings > Advanced and look for Split Tunneling.
  1. Choose the Allow only selected apps to use VPN option.
  1. Select the apps you want to route through the VPN tunnel.
  1. Apply your changes, connect to any VPN server, and you are all set!

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between full tunnel and split tunnel VPN?

A full tunnel VPN encrypts all your internet traffic, routing everything through the VPN for maximum security. Split tunneling lets you choose which traffic goes through the VPN, allowing faster speeds for non-sensitive tasks.

Is VPN split tunneling good or bad?

Split tunneling is good if you want flexibility and better speeds by encrypting only essential traffic. However, it can leave non-VPN traffic exposed, so it depends on your priorities—security or performance.

Which VPN allows split tunneling?

Many VPNs, including PureVPN, offer split tunneling as a feature. Check your VPN’s app settings to see if it’s available.

Is a full tunnel VPN more secure?

Yes, a full tunnel VPN is more secure because it encrypts all your data, leaving no traffic unprotected. This makes it the better option for privacy-focused users.

What is inverse split tunneling?

Inverse split tunneling encrypts all traffic by default but lets you exclude specific apps or websites from using the VPN. It is the opposite of traditional split tunneling.

author

Arsalan Rashid

date

January 2, 2025

time

10 months ago

A marketing geek turning clicks into customers and data into decisions, chasing ROI like it’s a sport.

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