How to Use VPN for Specific Apps: A Step-by-Step Guide

19/04/2025 VPN Pieces Team

This guide explains how to use VPN for specific apps, covering split tunneling, app rules, security tips, and platformspecific setup for U.S. users.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Want a VPN for Specific Apps

When it comes to digital privacy, not all apps are created equal. Some handle sensitive data, while others simply don’t need VPN protection.

Here’s why customizing your VPN usage per app can be beneficial:

Enhanced security for specific apps like banking or secure messaging.
Improved performance for latency-sensitive apps such as games.
Bypass content restrictions on select streaming or social media apps.

Imagine securing your PayPal transactions through a VPN while keeping your Spotify connection local for optimal streaming quality. That’s the power of VPN app customization.

Moreover, many apps behave differently depending on region or network policies. With VPN app control, you decide which app goes through encrypted tunnels, giving you privacy without sacrificing performance.

Understanding Selective VPN Routing and Split Tunneling

Selective VPN routing or split tunneling is a method where only certain apps or domains are routed through the VPN, while others use the standard internet connection.

This setup is especially useful for:

Streaming U.S. content while accessing local websites.
Playing games on a local server while using encrypted browsing.
Connecting to office tools via VPN while accessing local services for faster speeds.

Split tunneling methods typically include:

App-based split tunneling – Choose specific apps to use VPN.
Domain-based split tunneling – Define URLs or IP ranges.
Inverse split tunneling – All traffic goes through VPN except listed apps.

Tools like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN offer built-in vpn split tunneling support, allowing granular vpn app preferences.

Setting Up VPN for Individual Applications on Android

Android makes it relatively easy to manage per-app VPN setup, especially with VPNs offering app filtering features.

Step-by-step:

Install a VPN that supports split tunneling (e.g., Surfshark, ExpressVPN).
Open VPN settings and select “Split Tunneling” or “App Exclusion.”
Check or uncheck the apps you want to include or exclude from VPN.

Android’s native VPN framework also allows VPN app bypass for apps like Google Play or local banking apps, optimizing both speed and compatibility.

Pro tip: Some custom ROMs like LineageOS offer advanced per-app VPN support.

Configuring VPN App Settings on iOS

iOS restricts app-level VPN configuration, but there are workarounds using third-party tools or enterprise profiles.

Here’s how to achieve it:

Use VPN apps with per-app VPN via MDM (Mobile Device Management).
Apps like Cisco AnyConnect or Per-App VPN by iOS Enterprise let you assign VPN per app.
Alternatively, use a cloud firewall or DNS-based rules to mimic app filtering.

Although iOS limits vpn app customization, VPN providers like ProtonVPN offer VPN app tunneling workarounds using DNS tunneling and smart rules.

VPN for Gaming Apps: Optimize Speed & Reduce Lag

Gamers often need a delicate balance: security without sacrificing ping. That’s where vpn for gaming apps becomes essential.

How to configure:

Use VPNs with gaming-specific servers (e.g., NordVPN, Private Internet Access).
Enable split tunneling to route only your game through VPN.
Choose nearest VPN servers to your game’s server region.

Benefits:

Bypass game IP bans or region locks.
Reduce throttling from ISPs.
Maintain speed for voice apps like Discord.

Example: Many Call of Duty players use a Japan VPN server to access early updates or match with a specific player base.

VPN for Streaming Apps: Access Global Content

From Netflix U.S. to BBC iPlayer, vpn for streaming apps lets you bypass geographical restrictions and access content globally.

Steps:

Choose a VPN with streaming-optimized servers.
Enable VPN for selected streaming apps only (e.g., Netflix, Hulu).
Leave local apps like YouTube or ESPN routed directly to avoid speed loss.

Best practices:

Use fast servers with low latency.
Enable smart DNS if available for faster streaming.
Regularly clear app cache to avoid IP-based tracking.

With the right setup, vpn application rules allow seamless 4K streaming while your other apps operate at native speed.

VPN for Social Media: Protect Privacy & Unblock Access

Using a vpn for social media apps ensures your personal conversations and content remain private—even on public Wi-Fi.

Tips:

Route apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, or Snapchat through VPN.
Use countries with strong data privacy laws (e.g., Switzerland).
Set up vpn app encryption and kill switch for added protection.

Ideal for:

Traveling to regions where social apps are restricted.
Avoiding profiling from ads and surveillance.
Maintaining anonymous interactions.

Always test app compatibility, as some platforms may flag VPN usage.

VPN for Banking Apps: Strengthen Financial Security

With cybercrime on the rise, vpn for banking apps is no longer optional.

Key steps:

Use a no-log VPN provider.
Select home country server for banking compatibility.
Enable VPN auto-connect when launching your banking app.

Common banks that benefit:

Chase, Bank of America, Capital One
PayPal, Venmo, Cash App

Many U.S.-based banking apps employ geo-checks, so vpn whitelisting apps is crucial to avoid login issues.

Windows and Mac: Set Up VPN for Specific Desktop Applications

While most desktop VPNs route traffic globally, per-app VPN configuration is possible using:

OpenVPN with routing tables
VPN client split tunneling
Firewall rules to direct traffic

Example use case:

Route Slack and Outlook through VPN.
Keep Chrome and YouTube outside the VPN tunnel.

Tools like ForceBindIP (Windows) or Little Snitch (Mac) help implement vpn app prioritization and routing.

Using Third-Party Tools for Per-App VPN Setup

Several advanced users opt for third-party tools to customize vpn app connectivity:

Top tools:

Proxifier (Windows/Mac): Assign apps to proxy/VPN tunnels.
Tasker + OpenVPN (Android): Automate per-app VPN profiles.
NetGuard: Android firewall for routing apps selectively.

These tools enhance vpn app integration where native support lacks.

VPN App Management and Customization

To keep things organized, focus on vpn app management and automation:

Best practices:

Create vpn profiles for different activities (e.g., work, streaming, gaming).
Use VPNs with dashboard-based control (e.g., Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T).
Set scheduling rules or triggers based on time, location, or app launch.

Benefits:

Reduced manual toggling.
Increased security and speed.
Better user experience.

Troubleshooting Common VPN App Issues

Even the best setups can run into hiccups.

Common issues and fixes:

App won’t connect through VPN – Update VPN or whitelist the app.
App runs slower with VPN – Switch server or enable split tunneling.
App blocked or flagged – Change VPN protocol (e.g., WireGuard vs. OpenVPN).

Use diagnostic tools within the VPN app for real-time logs and latency tracking. Prioritize vpn app reliability by staying up to date.

VPN App Compatibility: What Works and What Doesn’t

Not all apps behave the same way under a VPN. Some ignore the tunnel due to internal DNS settings or app design.

Compatible with VPN:

Browsers, messaging, banking, streaming, gaming

May have issues:

Certain stock trading apps
Video conferencing tools (Zoom, Teams)
Some government apps with strict network checks

Always test and monitor to ensure smooth vpn app performance and avoid disconnections.

FAQs: VPN for Specific Apps

Can I use VPN only for one app on my phone?
Yes, using split tunneling or app-based filtering, you can select a single app to route through VPN while others use regular internet.

Which VPNs support app-specific routing?
Top options include ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN—all offer split tunneling or similar features.

Is it safe to use VPN with banking apps?
Absolutely, as long as you use a trusted provider and connect to a server in your bank’s region to avoid login issues.

Do all platforms support per-app VPN?
Android supports it natively with compatible VPNs. iOS and desktops may need MDM profiles or third-party apps.

Why does my app lag when using VPN?
This is often due to distance from the VPN server or low bandwidth. Use a server closer to your region or enable split tunneling.

Conclusion

Understanding how to use VPN for specific apps gives you the power to customize your digital environment like never before. From boosting privacy to enhancing performance, the benefits are clear—especially when using the right tools and settings.

Whether you’re a gamer aiming to reduce lag, a traveler unlocking content, or a privacy advocate shielding sensitive apps, per-app VPN setups offer the flexibility and control modern users crave. Start exploring split tunneling, app rules, and advanced filtering today to take full command of your VPN experience.

Key Takeaways

Per-app VPN setup improves privacy and performance simultaneously.
Use split tunneling and selective routing to optimize app-specific traffic.
Choose VPNs that support custom app rules and preferences.
Employ third-party tools for deeper control on desktops and iOS.
Regularly test and monitor vpn app compatibility and speed for best results.