Fix VPN Split Tunneling Not Working on Windows 11 With Banking Apps and Streaming Services

Your VPN split tunneling feature should make life easier, not break your banking app or streaming service. When this clever tool stops working correctly on Windows 11, it can lock you out of essential services or expose your entire internet traffic unnecessarily. This guide will help you diagnose and fix a malfunctioning split tunneling setup, getting your selective routing back on track so your bank and Netflix remain accessible outside the VPN tunnel.

What you’ll learn:

• Common reasons why split tunneling fails on Windows 11.
• Step-by-step troubleshooting for apps like banking and streaming platforms.
• How to configure your VPN for reliable, app-specific routing.

Why Your VPN Split Tunneling Is Failing

Split tunneling is a powerful feature that lets you decide which apps use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet. On Windows 11, several factors can disrupt this delicate balance. The most common culprit is often a recent Windows update that changes network stack behavior or resets firewall permissions. Antivirus and security suites can also interfere, mistakenly blocking the VPN's ability to manage app-specific routes.

Another frequent issue lies with the applications themselves. Banking apps and streaming services like Netflix or Hulu use advanced detection methods. If they sense any network manipulation—even from a trusted VPN's split tunneling feature—they might block access as a security precaution. Furthermore, incorrect configuration within your VPN client, such as having both app-based and IP-based split tunneling rules active, can create conflicts that cause the feature to fail silently.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Split Tunneling

Before diving deep, start with the basics. A simple restart of your Windows 11 PC and your VPN client can resolve temporary glitches. If that doesn't work, follow this structured approach.

1. Verify Your VPN Client Settings

First, open your VPN application and navigate to the split tunneling settings. The terminology might differ—look for “Split Tunneling,” “App Bypass,” or “Per-App VPN.” Ensure the feature is actually enabled. Then, double-check the list of applications you've chosen to exclude from or include in the VPN tunnel. A common mistake is accidentally adding an app to the wrong list. For instance, if you want your browser to go through the VPN but your banking app to bypass it, they must be in the correct corresponding categories.

2. Run the VPN and Problematic Apps as Administrator

User Account Control (UAC) in Windows 11 can sometimes prevent the VPN driver from applying network rules correctly. To rule this out, right-click your VPN's desktop shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” Do the same for any problematic application, like your banking software. This grants the necessary system-level permissions to modify network routes. Test your split tunneling again after doing this. If it works, you may need to adjust the compatibility settings for these applications to always run with admin rights.

3. Configure Windows Firewall and Antivirus Exceptions

Your Windows Defender Firewall or third-party antivirus might be blocking the VPN's split tunneling component. You need to add exceptions for your VPN client.

• For Windows Defender: Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Allow an app through firewall. Find your VPN in the list and ensure both “Private” and “Public” boxes are checked. If it's not listed, click “Allow another app” to add it.
• For Third-Party Antivirus: Consult your security software's documentation to learn how to add your VPN application to its “trusted applications” or “exclusions” list.

4. Disable Conflicting VPN and Proxy Services

If you have more than one VPN client installed, or if you're using a proxy server, they can conflict with your primary VPN's split tunneling. Go to Windows Settings > Network & internet > VPN and remove any old or unused VPN configurations. Then, check your proxy settings by searching for “Proxy” in the Windows Start menu and ensure “Use a proxy server” is turned off unless you specifically need it for another purpose.

Specific Fixes for Banking Apps and Streaming Services

These types of apps are particularly sensitive and often require special attention.

Banking Apps

Banks implement strict security measures. If your banking app isn't working with split tunneling, try adding its entire process tree. Some banking apps launch secondary processes for security. Instead of just adding the main .exe, you might need to research and add any associated helper processes to your VPN's exclusion list. Alternatively, use your VPN's browser extension for a specific browser and do your banking in a different, non-VPN browser. A reliable VPN like NordVPN offers robust split tunneling that can handle these complex scenarios.

Streaming Services (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+)

Streaming platforms aggressively block IP addresses associated with VPNs. Even with split tunneling, if the app detects a VPN on the system, it might still deny service. The most effective solution is to use a VPN known for reliably bypassing geo-blocks. Ensure the streaming app is correctly set to bypass the VPN tunnel. If issues persist, try accessing the service via a web browser that is set to bypass the VPN, rather than using the dedicated desktop application. For a seamless streaming experience, consider a top-tier provider like ExpressVPN, which is consistently successful at accessing global content libraries.

When to Consider a Different VPN Provider

If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps and your split tunneling is still unreliable, the problem might be with the VPN provider itself. Not all VPNs implement split tunneling equally well. Some have buggy clients or limited features on Windows 11. Look for a provider that offers both “Inverse” split tunneling (only selected apps use the VPN) and “Standard” split tunneling (only selected apps bypass the VPN), giving you maximum flexibility.

Best VPN this month: Surfshark offers one of the most intuitive and reliable split tunneling implementations on the market, allowing you to easily manage which apps use the VPN connection on your Windows 11 device.

For a deeper look at your options, check out our detailed VPN comparisons.

Advanced Configuration and Final Checks

For power users, digging deeper might be necessary. Check if your VPN offers a “Bypass VPN for local network” option. Having this enabled can sometimes interfere with app-based rules. You can also try temporarily disabling IPv6 in your Windows network adapter properties, as some older VPN clients have issues with IPv6 routing in a split tunneling context.

Finally, a clean reinstall of your VPN client can work wonders. Uninstall the software, restart your computer, and then download a fresh copy from the provider's official website. This ensures all configuration files and drivers are reset to their default, uncorrupted state. For more general tips on maintaining your digital privacy during these processes, our privacy guides are a great resource.

A properly functioning split tunneling setup is key to a smooth and secure online experience on Windows 11. It allows you to protect your privacy on public Wi-Fi with your VPN while still granting instant, local access to your bank and favorite shows. Don't let a technical glitch force you to choose between security and convenience. Follow these steps to regain control, and if your current VPN can't keep up, explore a provider built for modern Windows demands. Secure your specific apps today and stop the connectivity headaches.