eSIM Split Tunneling Privacy: Route Traffic Selectively

What Is Split Tunneling?

Split tunneling allows you to route some traffic through your VPN while letting other traffic go directly through your eSIM connection. PrivateSims users should understand both the benefits and risks of split tunneling.

When Split Tunneling Makes Sense

• Bandwidth-intensive apps: Route streaming directly while keeping browsing through VPN
• Local services: Access local network devices that require your real IP
• Banking apps: Some banking apps block VPN connections
• Speed-critical apps: Gaming or video calls may benefit from direct connections

Privacy Risks of Split Tunneling

Split tunneling creates potential privacy leaks. Traffic outside the VPN is visible to your carrier and may expose your real IP. For maximum privacy, avoid split tunneling entirely. If you must use it, never split-tunnel your browser and always route messaging apps through VPN.

For the most secure VPN configuration, see our VPN over eSIM guide.

FAQ

Is split tunneling safe for privacy?

Split tunneling inherently reduces privacy by sending some traffic unprotected. Only use it when you understand and accept the trade-offs.

How do I configure split tunneling?

Most VPN apps offer split tunneling in their settings, allowing you to exclude specific apps from the VPN tunnel.