--- 
canonical: 'https://mwop.net/blog/223-Enabling-VPN-split-tunnel-with-NetworkManager.html'
title: 'Enabling VPN split tunnel with NetworkManager'
author: "[Matthew Weier O'Phinney](https://mwop.net)"
created: '2009-08-31T15:34:37-05:00'
updated: '2009-08-31T15:34:37-05:00'
tags:
  - linux
  - security
  - wifi

---
I've been using [NetworkManager](http://projects.gnome.org/NetworkManager/) for
some time now, and appreciate how easy it makes both connecting to wifi as well
as VPNs. That said, I've had an issue with it that I only resolved today.

When working from home, I prefer to use a VPN split tunnel setup — I'm behind a
firewall all the time, and it's useful to be able to run virtual machines while
still connected to my VPN (e.g., when doing training or webinar sessions).
However, I noticed some months ago that this wasn't working. I assumed at first
it was a change in our network setup, but others reported that the split tunnel
was working fine. It's been particularly problematic when on IRC — if the VPN
drops, I lose my IRC connection, meaning I have to re-connect and re-claim my
nick.

So, I did some searching, and found an interesting setting. In NetworkManager,
"Configure..." then "Edit" your VPN connection, and navigate to the "IPv4
Settings" tab. Once there, click the button that says "Routes..." and select the
checkbox next to "Use this connection only for resources on its network". Press
Ok to close the dialog, then "Apply" to exit out of the VPN configuration.
Re-connect to the VPN, and you should be all set.

*Note: this will only work if your VPN server is configured to allow split tunnels. Additionally, only do so if you are behind a firewall. Practice safe networking.*