CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

In a split-tunnel VPN, what happens to non-VPN traffic?

1. It is completely blocked from leaving the network

2. It is sent normally outside of the VPN connection

3. It is rerouted through the VPN for security

4. It is prioritized over VPN traffic

The correct answer is: It is sent normally outside of the VPN connection

In a split-tunnel VPN, non-VPN traffic is sent normally outside of the VPN connection. This configuration allows users to access both the public internet and the private network simultaneously, optimizing their internet usage while maintaining secure access to internal resources. By utilizing split tunneling, only the traffic destined for the private network is encrypted and sent through the VPN tunnel. This approach reduces the load on the VPN server and can enhance performance, as it allows local internet access for browsing and other activities without routing everything through the VPN. This is especially useful for users who need to access both internal company resources and the broader internet, ensuring that they can work efficiently and effectively. In contrast, options that suggest the traffic is blocked, rerouted for security, or prioritized do not accurately describe the nature of split tunneling, which is designed to facilitate simultaneous access in a way that balances security and usability.