• Proton removes restrictions on simultaneous feature usage on Windows
• Users can now use Split Tunneling, Kill Switch, and NetShield altogether
• Split tunneling is currently in beta for Mac and Linux users

If you’ve been using Proton VPN on Windows, you’ve likely encountered a frustrating “pick two” scenario. For a long time, the app forced users to make a compromise: if you wanted to use split tunneling to route specific apps outside the VPN, you often had to disable other critical security features.

According to an X post by the company, that friction is finally gone. Proton has just rolled out an update for its Windows application that allows users to enable Split Tunneling, the Kill Switch, and NetShield simultaneously.

“Proton VPN’s latest update on Windows lets you benefit from all three at once, so you can feel relieved while you browse the internet securely,” the company tweeted.

For the uninitiated, this is a significant quality-of-life improvement that brings one of the best VPN for privacy in line with its most versatile competitors.

Previously, enabling split tunneling, which lets you keep your banking app on your normal connection while routing your torrenting client through the VPN, meant you might have to sacrifice the safety net of the kill switch or the malware and ad-blocking protection of NetShield.

Now, you are free to use split tunneling to customize your traffic without compromising your security posture. You can stream local Netflix content in your browser (outside the tunnel) while downloading files securely (inside the tunnel), all while NetShield blocks trackers and the kill switch ensures no data leaks if the connection drops.

Why this trio matters

This update essentially unlocks the “Holy Grail” of VPN setups: maximum security with maximum convenience.

• Split Tunneling: This is the ultimate convenience feature. It solves the issue of websites that block VPNs (like some banking portals) or local services that require your real IP address. Instead of turning the virtual private network (VPN) off entirely, you simply exclude those specific apps.
• Kill Switch: This is your fail-safe. If your VPN server disconnects for even a second, the Kill Switch cuts your internet access instantly to prevent your real IP address from being exposed to prying eyes.
• NetShield: Proton’s DNS filtering feature that blocks malware, ads, and online trackers before they even load.

By allowing these three to run in tandem, Proton has removed the need for users to constantly toggle settings based on what they are doing. It transforms the app from a tool you have to manage into a “set and forget” security layer.

What about Mac and Linux?

While Windows users can celebrate today, the situation for other platforms is catching up. Split tunneling is currently available for Mac and Linux users via the beta versions of the app.

However, it remains to be seen if the specific capability to run all three features simultaneously is fully operational on these beta builds yet. TechRadar has reached out to Proton for confirmation on when Mac and Linux users can expect full parity with the Windows experience, and we will update this story when we hear back.

For now, Windows users should check their apps for updates to ensure they are running the latest version. If you haven’t tried the service yet, you can read our full Proton VPN review to see why it remains one of our top-rated choices for privacy enthusiasts.

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Rene Millman is a seasoned technology journalist whose work has appeared in The Guardian, the Financial Times, Computer Weekly, and IT Pro. With over two decades of experience as a reporter and editor, he specializes in making complex topics like cybersecurity, VPNs, and enterprise software accessible and engaging.