Overview
VirtualShield now provides a feature called Local Network Access, allowing you to use your Wi-Fi and LAN (Local Area Network) connected devices, while keeping your data private at the same time.
Also known as Split Tunneling, this option allows you to communicate with other wireless devices on your network (mouse/keyboard, gamepad, printer, etc.) while the VPN is active.
Windows
If you have any wireless devices connected to your computer, we recommend enabling this option. Otherwise, all traffic will be routed through the VPN tunnel, including your local/Wi-Fi traffic.
Disabling it provides an additional layer of security, by blocking all outside traffic from reaching your local network. However, you may not be able to access these devices until you disconnect.
This is especially important when making online purchases or browsing the web at a public hotspot, like at a coffee shop or airport.
Local Network Access
How to enable or disable Split Tunneling on your Windows computer:
Open VirtualShield and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Select the VPN tab, or navigate to Secure VPN from the Overview screen.
Click the Settings button near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
Alternatively you can right-click the shield icon next to your clock, then select VPN Settings from the menu.
Toggle the Local Network Access option on or off, then click the back arrow to return to the VPN screen.
You may need to re-connect to the VPN after saving your settings before the changes will be applied.
macOS
If you have any wireless devices connected to your computer, we recommend enabling this option. Otherwise, all traffic will be routed through the VPN tunnel, including your local/Wi-Fi traffic.
Disabling it provides an additional layer of security, by blocking all outside traffic from reaching your local network. However, you may not be able to access these devices until you disconnect.
This is especially important when making online purchases or browsing the web at a public hotspot, like at a coffee shop or airport.
Local Network Access
How to enable or disable Split Tunneling on your Mac computer:
Open VirtualShield and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
In the Secure VPN section, click the slider icon to open the VPN Settings panel.
Toggle the Local Network Access option on or off, then click the close button to return to the Home screen.
You may need to re-connect to the VPN after saving your settings before the changes will be applied.
iOS
If you have any wireless devices connected to your phone/tablet, we recommend enabling this option. Otherwise, all traffic will be routed through the VPN tunnel, including your local/Wi-Fi traffic.
Disabling it provides an additional layer of security, by blocking all outside traffic from reaching your local network. However, you may not be able to access these devices until you disconnect.
This is especially important when making online purchases or browsing the web at a public hotspot, like at a coffee shop or airport.
Local Network Access
How to enable or disable Split Tunneling on your Apple iPhone/iPad:
Open VirtualShield and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Tap the slider icon near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
Toggle the Local Network Access option on or off, then tap the back arrow to return to the Home screen.
You may need to re-connect to the VPN after saving your settings before the changes will be applied.
Android
If you have any wireless devices connected to your phone/tablet, we recommend enabling this option. Otherwise, all traffic will be routed through the VPN tunnel, including your local/Wi-Fi traffic.
Disabling it provides an additional layer of security, by blocking all outside traffic from reaching your local network. However, you may not be able to access these devices until you disconnect.
This is especially important when making online purchases or browsing the web at a public hotspot, like at a coffee shop or airport.
Local Network Access
How to enable or disable Split Tunneling on your Android phone/tablet:
Open VirtualShield and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Tap the slider icon near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
Toggle the Local Network Access option on or off, then tap the back arrow to return to the Home screen.
You may need to re-connect to the VPN after saving your settings before the changes will be applied.
Common Questions
Do I need Split Tunneling if I'm not using Wi-Fi?
No, if you have a hardwired or cellular connection you can safely disable this option. However, we recommend leaving it on in case your network changes.
Do I need Split Tunneling for Bluetooth devices?
No, this only applies to Wi-Fi/LAN connected devices. Your Bluetooth devices will not be impacted by this option.