If you use a VPN to access geo-restricted content like Netflix or BBC iPlayer, you‘ve probably encountered the dreaded VPN block message. Streaming sites actively block VPN IP addresses to enforce licensing restrictions. Thankfully, IPVanish VPN offers a handy "split tunneling" feature that lets you unblock these sites while keeping your traffic encrypted.
In this detailed guide, I‘ll explain how IPVanish split tunneling works and show you how to set it up on your Fire TV, Android phone, iPhone, Mac, Windows PC, and more. With split tunneling enabled, you can bypass VPN blocks and access region-locked libraries from services like Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and many others.
Let‘s start with a quick refresher on what a VPN is and why IPVanish stands out as a top option for streaming and privacy.
What is a VPN and Why Use One?
A VPN, or virtual private network, reroutes your internet connection through an encrypted tunnel to a server in a location of your choosing. This provides several key benefits:
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Encrypts data – Secures your web traffic from prying eyes using military-grade AES 256-bit encryption.
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Hides IP address – Masks your real IP and location, displaying the VPN server‘s IP instead.
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Bypasses geographic blocks – Allows you to spoof your location and access region-locked websites and streaming content.
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Enhances privacy – Prevents your ISP and network from monitoring your browsing activity and tracking you.
There are many different VPN protocols, but the most common are:
- OpenVPN – Fast and highly secure, used by most VPNs.
- IKEv2/IPSec – Native support in iOS, Blackberry, and Windows. Very fast speeds.
- WireGuard – Newer protocol focused on performance and security.
IPVanish uses OpenVPN and IPSec/IKEv2 by default for the best blend of speed and security.
Some other reasons to use a VPN like IPVanish:
- Access censored sites and social media when traveling abroad
- Secure public WiFi hotspots from hackers
- Torrent files safely and privately
- Protect Internet of Things (IoT) devices
- Bypass bandwidth throttling by ISPs
VPN usage has exploded in recent years, with over 28 million Americans now using one for at least some of their online activity.
Why Choose IPVanish VPN?
IPVanish consistently ranks as a top VPN for both speed and security. Here‘s an overview of the key benefits IPVanish provides:
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Blazing speeds – Critical for HD streaming. IPVanish has an average speed loss of just 18%, compared to 28% for the average VPN.
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Zero traffic logs – IPVanish‘s strict no-logs policy means no tracking or activity logs.
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Tons of servers – 1,600+ servers in 75+ countries gives you more location spoofing options.
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Unblocks Netflix & BBC iPlayer – IPVanish reliably bypasses geo-restrictions to access region-locked libraries.
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P2P/torrenting allowed – Download files safely with IPVanish. Most VPNs block torrent traffic.
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10 device connections – Use IPVanish on all your gadgets with 10 simultaneous connections.
IPVanish costs just $3.25/month with its latest discounts, compared to $6.67 for ExpressVPN and $10.99 for NordVPN.
For the best mix of fast speeds, security, and bargain pricing, IPVanish can‘t be beat. Their split tunneling feature really sets them apart from competitors as well.
What is VPN Split Tunneling?
Split tunneling is a handy VPN feature that routes only specific apps or services outside the encrypted VPN tunnel. This allows those apps to access the internet directly through your ISP rather than the VPN server.
The main reason to enable split tunneling is to bypass VPN blocking measures on popular streaming sites like:
- Amazon Prime Video
- BBC iPlayer
- Hulu
- Netflix
- Disney+
- ESPN
- NBC Sports
- YouTube TV
- And many more
With split tunneling, your VPN remains active in the background protecting your main traffic. But "split" apps are able to connect directly, avoiding VPN blocks.
According to research from Comparitech, 77% of major streaming platforms actively block connections from known VPN servers. Split tunneling is the perfect workaround.
Below I‘ll show you how to configure split tunneling on IPVanish for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Fire TV, and more.
Step-by-Step Guide to IPVanish VPN Split Tunneling
The process of enabling split tunneling is straightforward on most platforms. I‘ll provide instructions with pictures for Android, Fire TV, iPhone/iPad, Windows, and macOS.
Android Phones & Android TV
Here‘s how to set up a split tunnel on IPVanish for Android:
- Launch the IPVanish app and tap the ≡ menu button.
- Choose Settings > Split Tunneling
- Toggle Show System Apps to see core services like Prime Video.
- Check apps you want to exclude from the VPN tunnel.
And that‘s it! Those selected apps will now bypass the VPN while everything else routes through the encrypted tunnel.
Amazon Fire TV & Fire TV Stick
The process is the same on Amazon Fire TV devices:
- Open the IPVanish app and select Settings
- Choose Split Tunneling
- Enable Show System Apps
- Check the apps to exclude from the VPN tunnel
Now you can unblock Prime Video, Hulu, and other streaming apps on your Fire TV with IPVanish running in the background.
iPhone & iPad
To set up split tunneling on iOS:
- Tap the ≡ menu in the upper left of the IPVanish app
- Go to Settings > Split Tunneling
- Toggle apps on or off to exclude them from the VPN
That‘s all there is to it! Streaming apps and services you exclude will now bypass IPVanish while maintaining your privacy and security otherwise.
Windows PC
On Windows, access split tunneling like this:
- Right-click the IPVanish system tray icon and choose Settings
- Click Split Tunneling on the left sidebar
- Check the apps you want to exclude from the VPN tunnel
Now those selected apps will route outside the VPN, allowing you to bypass any VPN blocking measures.
macOS
To configure split tunneling on a Mac:
- Click the IPVanish logo in the menu bar and go to Preferences
- Choose Split Tunneling
- Check the apps and services you want to exclude from the VPN tunnel
With just those few clicks, any app you exclude will no longer pass through IPVanish, skirting VPN blocks while maintaining your overall privacy.
Sample Apps to Split Tunnel for Unblocking
To recap, here are some examples of popular streaming services known to block VPNs that you may want to route outside the VPN tunnel:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
- Disney+
- BBC iPlayer
- Netflix
- YouTube TV
- Sling TV
- ESPN
- HBO Max
- Peacock
- Paramount+
- Pluto TV
- Crackle
- Tubi
Test your favorite streaming apps with the IPVanish VPN enabled. Any that display geo-restriction messages are good candidates for split tunneling.
Split Tunneling Tips for Security & Privacy
Split tunneling gives you more access to streaming content, but it also routes some traffic outside the VPN. Here are some tips to maximize privacy and security with IPVanish split tunneling:
- Only exclude apps you fully trust – sensitive apps stay in the tunnel.
- Minimize the number of split tunneled apps when possible.
- Temporarily disable split tunneling when not needed for full protection.
- Never split tunnel torrent or browser traffic as that exposes your IP address.
- Use IPVanish‘s kill switch to halt internet if the VPN drops.
- Ensure your operating system and apps are updated with the latest security patches.
- Always connect to a VPN server in a privacy-friendly country.
While incredibly useful, split tunneling does require some knowledge to configure properly. But a few common sense precautions will keep you safe and secure while unblocking tons of new content.
IPVanish VPN vs. Top Competitors
How does IPVanish stack up against some of the other top-rated VPN services? Here‘s a quick comparison on key metrics:
| VPN | Speed Loss | Pricing | Split Tunneling |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPVanish | 18% | $3.25/mo | Yes |
| ExpressVPN | 21% | $6.67/mo | No |
| NordVPN | 28% | $10.99/mo | Yes |
| Surfshark | 28% | $2.21/mo | Yes |
| Private Internet | 21% | $2.03/mo | No |
IPVanish holds its own against the competition, with some of the fastest speeds, lowest pricing, and the all-important split tunneling feature. The only service cheaper is Private Internet Access, but they lack advanced features.
NordVPN and Surfshark also offer split tunneling, but at a higher monthly cost.
Based on third-party testing from sites like VPN Tier List, IPVanish consistently ranks near the top for speed, reliability, and ease of use. The addition of split tunneling at a very affordable rate makes IPVanish a top choice.
Why IPVanish VPN is Ideal for Streaming
In addition to allowing split tunneling to bypass VPN blocks, IPVanish excels in other areas that make it idea for streaming:
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High-speed servers optimized for fast HD video streaming. IPVanish owns its servers rather than renting.
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Zero throttling – IPVanish prohibits throttling and interference even during peak hours.
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Unblocks geo-restrictions – Easily access region-locked libraries on Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.
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Zero usage logs – IPVanish‘s strict no-logs policy means you leave no trace.
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Reliable connections – Very little VPN dropping, DNS leaks, or connection errors reported.
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Apps for all platforms – Native IPVanish apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Linux, and routers.
When your priority is accessing streaming content worldwide with stability and speed, IPVanish fits the bill.
Final Thoughts on IPVanish VPN Split Tunneling
In conclusion, IPVanish split tunneling is an invaluable tool for any cord-cutter using a VPN service. This allows you to maintain your privacy and security through the VPN while also bypassing the blocks in place on most top streaming platforms.
With IPVanish‘s simple toggle on/off implementation of split tunneling, gaining access to your favorite geo-restricted shows is easy. And IPVanish still brings premium speed and privacy at a very affordable monthly rate.
I highly recommend IPVanish for the ideal combination of unblocking abilities, security, performance, and cost-effectiveness. The split tunneling capability brings everything together into one streamer-friendly package.
To experience IPVanish risk-free, take advantage of their 30-day money back guarantee. With split tunneling enabled, you‘ll open up a world of streaming content previously blocked by your VPN.
Have any other questions about setting up split tunneling on IPVanish or recommendations for VPN-blocked streaming sites? Feel free to ask in the comments below!
