Device and method of managing data communications of a device in a network via a split tunnel mode connection

A device and a method for managing data communications of a device in a network are provided. The method includes establishing a secure communication connection for the device with a service provider via a tunnel mode connection. A determination is then made whether the device is part of a trusted domain including one or more other devices. If the device is part of a trusted domain including one or more other devices, then a direct communication connection is established, which bypasses the tunnel mode connection for only the devices that are part of the same trusted domain. Communications with any devices which are not part of the same trusted domain are routed via the tunnel mode connection.