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Yes, you can selectively route specific websites through NordVPN while keeping the rest of your traffic on your regular connection. This step-by-step guide walks you through how to whitelist websites using NordVPN’s split tunneling feature, with practical tips, real-world examples, and troubleshooting tips to get you up and running quickly.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick snapshot:
- What split tunneling is and why it matters
- How to enable split tunneling on different platforms Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- How to whitelist websites by domain and by app
- Common gotchas and troubleshooting steps
- Real-world use cases and tips to optimize performance
- FAQs to clear up common doubts
Useful resources and URLs text, not clickable:
NordVPN split tunneling overview – nordvpn.com/features/split-tunneling
NordVPN apps download – nordvpn.com/download
NordVPN support on split tunneling – support.nordvpn.com
DNS leak testing sites – dnsleaktest.com
IP geolocation check – iplocation.net
What is split tunneling and why whitelist websites
Split tunneling is a feature that lets you choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which traffic goes directly to the internet. For example, you might want to access region-locked content through the VPN while streaming or gaming, or you might want to keep banking or work-related sites outside the VPN to possibly reduce latency.
Whitelisting is a form of split tunneling where specific websites or apps bypass the VPN. This can improve speed for non-privacy-critical activities and reduce potential VPN-related issues with certain services.
Platform-by-platform setup: enabling split tunneling and whitelisting
Note: NordVPN’s interface and exact wording can change with app updates. If you don’t see an option, update your NordVPN app to the latest version or check the official support pages.
Windows
- Step 1: Install and open NordVPN
- Make sure you’re logged in with your NordVPN account.
- Step 2: Enable split tunneling
- Click on the Settings gear icon.
- Navigate to Split Tunneling.
- Turn on Split Tunneling.
- Step 3: Add domains to bypass VPN
- Choose “Always allow these apps to bypass the VPN” if you’re whitelisting apps.
- If you’re whitelisting websites by domain, NordVPN on Windows commonly uses app-based rules. For domain-based whitelisting, you’ll typically set up in your browser or system proxy rules. Some users leverage resource rules like Windows Firewall or third-party DNS rules to route specific domains outside the VPN. If you need true domain-level bypass within NordVPN, you may need to use the app’s “Always allow these apps” approach or use an alternative network routing tool in conjunction with NordVPN.
- Step 4: Verify
- Visit a site that should not go through the VPN and confirm your IP shows your real location. Use iplocation.net or similar to verify.
MacOS
- Step 1: Open NordVPN and log in
- Step 2: Enable Split Tunneling
- Go to Preferences > Split Tunneling.
- Turn on Split Tunneling.
- Step 3: Whitelist websites
- Similar to Windows, macOS focuses on app-based bypass. For domain-specific bypass, you may need to configure your browser or system routing rules. Check NordVPN’s macOS support for any domain-level options in the current app version.
- Step 4: Confirm
- Test with your browser to ensure certain sites aren’t going through the VPN.
Android
- Step 1: Open NordVPN and sign in
- Step 2: Enable Split Tunneling
- Access the side menu > Settings > Split Tunneling.
- Turn on Split Tunneling.
- Step 3: Add apps to bypass recommended approach
- Tap Add apps and select the apps that you want to bypass the VPN. This is the straightforward way to “whitelist” traffic by app.
- Step 4: Optional domain-level bypass
- If you specifically want to bypass certain domains, you may need to configure your browser or use a local VPN profile that supports domain rules. NordVPN’s Android app tends to emphasize app-based bypass.
- Step 4: Verify
- Check IP leaks with a browser test and ensure the whitelisted apps are not routing through the VPN.
IOS
- Step 1: Install NordVPN and log in
- Step 2: Enable Split Tunneling if available
- iOS support for split tunneling is more limited and often centered around per-website or per-app rules within the app. In many cases, iOS users rely on app-based bypass or manual browser configurations.
- Step 3: Whitelist strategy
- Like other platforms, domain-level bypass may require browser or OS-level routing tweaks. Confirm available options in the iOS app’s Split Tunneling section.
- Step 4: Test
- Visit a site that should bypass the VPN and verify your IP location.
How to whitelist websites on NordVPN: practical strategies
Strategy A: App-based bypass recommended for most users
- Pros: Simple, reliable, low-latency
- Cons: Doesn’t strictly bypass per-domain, but ensures specific apps don’t use the VPN
- How-to:
- Identify the apps that only need normal internet access e.g., banking apps, some streaming apps, local services.
- In NordVPN, enable Split Tunneling and add those apps to the bypass list.
- Test by opening the app and performing a real action that confirms non-VPN routing e.g., a login from a non-VPN region, or checking IP with a browser.
Strategy B: Per-domain bypass using OS/browser controls
- Pros: You can keep most traffic on VPN while specific sites bypass
- Cons: More complex, varies by OS and browser
- How-to:
- Use a browser that supports proxy or host-based routing rules e.g., Firefox with manual proxy settings, or a system-wide VPN-excluding proxy.
- Configure the browser to bypass VPN by either a direct connection for specific domains or by setting up a separate proxy/pac file that routes certain domains outside the VPN.
- Alternatively, use the Windows Firewall or macOS PF rules to exclude specific domains from the VPN tunnel, though this requires advanced networking knowledge.
Strategy C: DNS-based bypass advanced
- Pros: Keeps VPN active for most traffic; domain-level control
- Cons: Requires careful DNS and routing configuration; potential DNS leaks if not done correctly
- How-to:
- Run a separate DNS resolver that isn’t routed through the VPN for whitelisted domains.
- Ensure DNS requests for those domains aren’t leaked through the VPN by testing with DNS leak test sites.
- This approach is more technical and might be overkill for casual users.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Pitfall: App doesn’t appear in Split Tunneling list
- Fix: Ensure you’re running the latest NordVPN app version. Some apps require a restart after enabling Split Tunneling.
- Pitfall: DNS leaks despite whitelisting
- Fix: Use a trusted DNS service, and run a DNS leak test after configuration.
- Pitfall: Slower speeds even for whitelisted sites
- Fix: Check server load, switch to a less congested server, or temporarily disable other VPN features like Auto-Connect if not needed.
- Pitfall: Geolocation mismatch on whitelisted sites
- Fix: Test using multiple sites that verify location and adjust server choices or bypass rules accordingly.
Format options to enhance readability
- Quick-start checklist bulleted list
- Step-by-step mini-guides per platform numbered lists
- Tables comparing strategies App-based vs Domain-based vs DNS-based
- Real-world scenarios to illustrate when to use each method
- Screenshots and annotated captions if you publish a video or image-rich post
Data, statistics, and current trends you can reference
- VPN market size growth: The global VPN market continues to expand, with a projected CAGR of around 15-20% over the next few years, driven by privacy concerns, remote work, and streaming trends.
- Split tunneling popularity: A significant portion of VPN users leverage split tunneling to balance privacy with performance—particularly gamers, streamers, and professionals who access internal corporate resources.
- VPN speed impacts: Users often see a 5-30% speed difference depending on server location, encryption level, and network conditions. Splitting tunneling can help minimize performance loss for non-sensitive tasks.
Video-ready takeaways and talking points
- Start with a practical example: You’re browsing banking sites and streaming a show while your work dashboard runs through the VPN.
- Emphasize that the best approach varies by platform and user needs; often app-based bypass is enough.
- Encourage routine checks: run IP and DNS leak tests after configuring split tunneling.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is split tunneling in NordVPN?
Split tunneling lets you decide which apps or sites use the VPN and which don’t. It helps you balance privacy, security, and performance.
Can I whitelist individual websites with NordVPN?
Yes, but how you do it depends on your platform. NordVPN mainly supports app-based bypass, while domain-level bypass may require browser or OS-level configurations.
How do I enable split tunneling on Windows?
Open NordVPN, go to Settings, choose Split Tunneling, turn it on, and add the apps you want to bypass. For domain-specific bypass, you may need to configure your browser or OS routing rules.
How do I whitelist apps on Android?
In the NordVPN app, go to Split Tunneling and add the apps that should bypass the VPN. This is the simplest and most common method.
Is there a risk of DNS leaks with split tunneling?
There can be, especially if the DNS settings aren’t aligned with your routing choices. Run a DNS leak test after configuration and consider using NordVPN’s built-in DNS protection or a trusted DNS provider. Best vpns for your vseebox v2 pro unlock global content stream smoother
Can I bypass NordVPN for specific websites on iOS?
IOS support for per-domain bypass is limited. You’ll typically rely on app-based bypass or browser-level rules if supported by the current app version.
How do I test if the whitelisting works?
Visit a site that should bypass the VPN and check your IP address with an IP location tool. It should show your real location for whitelisted sites or apps.
What should I do if whitelisting isn’t working?
Double-check the correct setting in the Split Tunneling menu, ensure you’re on the latest app version, and test with different servers. If needed, disable all other VPN features that might interfere and re-test.
Can I use split tunneling with streaming services?
Yes, you can whitelist the streaming app to bypass the VPN if you want to improve streaming performance while keeping other traffic secured.
Are there performance tips to optimize split tunneling?
Yes. Use a nearby NordVPN server for non-whitelisted traffic, avoid peak hours when possible, and ensure your device isn’t running heavy background processes that tie up bandwidth. The Ultimate Guide Best VPNs for PwC Employees in 2026: Fast, Secure, and Packed with Pro Features
Additional resources
- NordVPN Split Tunneling Overview: nordvpn.com/features/split-tunneling
- NordVPN Apps Download: nordvpn.com/download
- NordVPN Support: support.nordvpn.com
- DNS Leak Test: dnsleaktest.com
- IP Location Check: iplocation.net
Final thoughts
Split tunneling, when done thoughtfully, gives you the best of both worlds: strong privacy for sensitive activities and faster performance for everyday tasks. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, start with app-based bypass as your default strategy, then explore domain-level or DNS-based tweaks if you need even finer control. And don’t forget to test after every change to ensure you’re getting the exact routing behavior you expect. If you want an easy starting point, try whitelisting the apps you rely on most and see how your day-to-day bandwidth and reliability improve. For more advanced users, experiment with domain-based rules and DNS configurations to tailor the experience even further.
Sources:
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Nordvpn keeps disconnecting fix it fast stop dropping connection
Does nordvpn app have an ad blocker yes heres how to use it The Absolute Best VPNs for Your iPhone iPad in 2026 2: The Ultimate Guide to Fast, Private, Secure Mobile Browsing