How to Fix NordVPN Split Tunneling Not Working

So you’ve been loving NordVPN. You connect, browse safely, and everything just works. But all of a sudden, split tunneling throws a tantrum. Apps you set to bypass the VPN start acting like they’ve forgotten their mission. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there!

TL;DR:

If NordVPN split tunneling isn’t working, don’t panic. It usually comes down to simple stuff: the app settings, software conflicts, or needing a quick update. This guide walks you through fixing everything step-by-step. You’ll be split tunneling like a pro in no time.

Wait, What Is Split Tunneling Again?

Quick refresher: split tunneling lets you pick which apps go through the VPN and which ones take the regular internet route. It’s super handy if you want to stream your local Netflix while keeping everything else secure.

But when it doesn’t work? Either everything goes through the VPN… or nothing does. Neither option is great if you’re trying to multitask securely.

Let’s Fix That!

1. Check If You’re Using the Right Version

Not all NordVPN versions support split tunneling. Crazy, right?

• On Windows: Split tunneling works on the NordVPN desktop app. It doesn’t work on the Windows Store version!
• On Android: Supported, but check your version.
• On macOS and iOS: Sorry, no split tunneling at the moment.

Fix: Uninstall the Microsoft Store version if that’s what you have. Get the official version from NordVPN’s website instead.

2. Reboot Everything (Yes, Seriously)

It’s silly, but it works more often than you’d think.

Fix:

1. Close NordVPN completely.
2. Restart your computer or Android device.
3. Open NordVPN again and test your apps.

If magic happens and it’s fixed, congrats! If not, march on. 📯

3. Update the App

Running on an old version? That might be your split-tunneling villain.

• Open NordVPN.
• Go to Settings → General.
• Hit Check for Updates.

If there’s an update: install it, reboot, and test again!

4. Check Split Tunneling Settings

Sometimes, the setting looks OK, but apps weren’t added correctly. Or maybe you forgot to click Apply. It happens to the best of us.

Fix:

1. Go to Settings in the app.
2. Click Split Tunneling.
3. Make sure the right apps are listed.
4. Set them to Bypass VPN or Use VPN as needed.
5. Double-check with a browser like Chrome or Edge to test.

Launching the app through NordVPN’s interface may help. Weird, but true.

5. Run as Administrator (Windows)

Sometimes, permissions cause headaches.

Fix: Right-click the NordVPN icon and select Run as administrator. Try split tunneling again. If it works, great! You can make Admin mode permanent.

1. Right-click the NordVPN shortcut.
2. Select Properties.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Check Run this program as an administrator.

6. Disable Conflicting Software

Other VPNs, proxy tools, or firewalls may mess with NordVPN.

Fix:

• Temporarily turn off 3rd-party firewalls or antivirus software.
• If you’ve installed other VPNs (like Surfshark, ExpressVPN), disable them first.
• Test split tunneling.

If it suddenly works, you’ve found the problem. You may need to add NordVPN as an exception.

7. Reinstall NordVPN

Last resort—but often effective.

Fix:

1. Uninstall NordVPN using your control panel or app store.
2. Restart your device.
3. Download the latest version from the official NordVPN website.
4. Install, log in, and test split tunneling again.

Sometimes a clean install solves crazy bugs no one can explain.

8. Still Broken? Contact Support

This might sound boring, but NordVPN’s support team is actually pretty cool.

Fix: Go to the NordVPN Support Center. Use chat or email support to explain your issue. Mention what device and OS you’re on, and what fixes you’ve already tried.

Bonus Tips

• Always launch apps AFTER activating the VPN. Some apps might not respect split tunneling if they’re already running.
• Use Task Manager (Windows) or Recent Apps (Android) to fully close apps before re-opening them through split tunneling.
• DNS settings can also affect routing. Stick with NordVPN’s defaults unless you’re a network wizard.

Why Split Tunneling Is Worth the Hassle

Even though it breaks sometimes, split tunneling is a gem. It gives you control over your privacy and speeds things up. You can watch content in your country without taking your whole identity on a VPN rollercoaster.

And once you get it working, you’ll feel like a proper tech ninja. 🥷

Wrap Up

When NordVPN split tunneling isn’t working, don’t rage-quit. Most issues are minor. Maybe you’re on the wrong app version, or a reboot is waiting to save the day. Take it step by step, and you’ll be back to juggling VPN and non-VPN apps like a pro.

If you’ve tried every fix here and it’s still not working—send NordVPN support a message. They’re human, and they *do* read what you send!

Now go enjoy streaming local Spotify while torrenting safely through your VPN. The best of both worlds!