PIA has re-launched its macOS split tunneling in beta with an important fix that addresses long-standing technical issues. At the same time, it’s also given its Apple TV VPN service a boost with a “world-first” dedicated IP feature.
The beta phase for the macOS split tunneling feature comes ahead of the full launch of the feature on the first week of March, when PIA (Private Internet Access) plans to open source it, the company said in a press release on Thursday.
Secondly, on tvOS 17 and above, PIA’s Apple TV VPN (a virtual private network) now comes with a “unique,” dedicated IP option that addresses common challenges faced by users, like streaming disruptions due to IP address changes.
“Over the past three years, thousands of PIA users have called for us to find a way to bring back split tunneling. By reintroducing this well-loved feature, we’re delighted to equip our users with even more tools that give them greater control over their online privacy,” Head of Productat PIA, Himmat Bains, said.
The company is “even more delighted to offer dedicated IP support alongside Apple TV functionality in time for 2024’s packed sporting schedule, improving on the PIA platform’s usability and accessibility credential,” he added.
Two ‘Much Anticipated’ and ‘Highly-requested’ Features Out Thursday
PIA has announced that its macOS split tunneling fix will be open-sourced on PIA’s GitHub repository and is set for a full launch on March 7. By open-sourcing the split tunneling fix, PIA empowers developers and users across the globe to enhance their digital security measures.
Split tunneling helps allow users the ability to customize which applications may run through their VPN and which may not. The fix, senior software Engineerat PIA Michele Emiliani explained, addresses split tunneling issues that have been present for years.
“In October 2021, a macOS update created an issue with the ‘route-to’ directive in the pf firewall. Attempting to reroute a TCP stream led to retransmission errors, preventing the connection from working properly,” he said. “Since then, split tunneling via macOS has only widely been possible for users running outdated OS versions from macOS 10 and older.”
As for PIA’s Apple TV VPN update, it now stands out with its “industry-first dedicated IP functionality,” the company said. Unlike traditional VPN services that assign varying IP addresses with each connection, PIA said its dedicated IP option ensures users maintain a consistent IP address. This innovation addresses common frustrations such as interrupted streaming, false security alerts, and network congestion, significantly improving the usability and reliability of VPN services for Apple TV users.
How to Activate Split Tunneling on macOS With PIA VPN
Follow these steps to enable split tunneling on macOS. Make sure you are not connected to a VPN server:
- Open the PIA app.
- Click on the three-dot menu in the upper right corner.
- Click Settings.
- Click Split Tunnel.
- Click the checkbox labeled Split Tunnel to enable the feature.
- On the pop-up titled System Extension Blocked, click Open System Settings.
- Under System Settings, select Privacy & Security.
- Scroll down to the notification under Security and click Allow.
- Enter your macOS password to confirm the settings.
- Go back to the PIA app.
- Click on Add Application or Add IP Address to choose the app or enter the IP address you wish to exclude from the VPN tunnel. Afterward, confirm your choice.
At this point, make sure Use VPN is selected next to All Other Apps. This will ensure that the apps you want to redirect through the VPN tunnel will have traffic encrypted.
Finally, connect to a VPN server and click Allow at the second pop-up where PIA Split Tunnel asks to add proxy configurations.
Note:
If you wish to exclude multiple apps such as the App Store, Safari, the Mail app, and others, simply exclude the WebKit applications option within the Add Application menu.
You can also read more on how to set up a VPN for Apple TV with PIA.
We found that PIA VPN is a great VPN with an extensive server network, and we like that it is a verified no-log VPN with a stellar track record for privacy. PIA VPN also placed fifth in our top VPNs of 2024.
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Mirza Silajdzic
Senior News Journalist
Over the past three years, Mirza has distinguished himself as an expert tech journalist at VPNOverview. Backed by a degree in Global Communications, his meticulous writing encompasses the evolving realms of generative AI and quantum computing, while also illuminating vital facets of malware, scams, and cybersecurity awareness. His articles have found acclaim on prestigious platforms, ranging from cybersecurity portals like Heimdal Security to broader channels such as the official EU portal. Furthermore, he is constantly engaging with other experts in cybersecurity and privacy, enriching his detailed research.
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