Outbound modes

Kumo (through Mihomo) has three outbound modes. The mode determines which proxy traffic uses when an app requests the network.

Switch modes at any time:

• In the GUI: the Mode picker on the Overview screen.
• In the menu bar: under Mode.
• Keyboard: ⌘1 (Rule), ⌘2 (Global), ⌘3 (Direct).

Rule mode (default)

Use this most of the time.

In Rule mode, Mihomo evaluates every connection against the rule list in the active profile:

• Connections matching proxy rules route through the chosen group.
• Connections matching direct rules (often local network, Apple services, China-mainland traffic for some subscriptions) go direct.
• Everything else falls through to the default rule, which usually routes through the main proxy group.

This is the mode subscription providers design their rule lists for, and the right choice for daily use.

Global mode

Use this when everything should route through one node.

In Global mode, Mihomo ignores rules and sends every connection through the selected proxy group. Local network traffic — printers, home servers, Bonjour devices — also goes through the proxy, which is usually undesirable.

Use Global mode when:

• Debugging and bypassing rule complexity.
• The provider explicitly recommends it.
• Everything should appear to come from one node (some payment flows, some geo-tests).

Direct mode

Use this to keep Kumo running without proxying.

In Direct mode, Mihomo sends every connection direct, as if the proxy were off. The core stays running, the configuration stays loaded, and switching back to Rule or Global takes one click.

Use Direct mode when:

• Testing whether a site works without the proxy.
• On a network where the proxy is unnecessary, and leaving Kumo open without the proxy path is preferred.

Switching mode does not break connections

Mihomo handles mode switches live. Existing connections finish on whatever proxy they were using; new connections follow the new mode. Nothing needs to be restarted.

What's next

• Add or change a subscription.
• Switch modes from the menu bar: Daily use.