How to fix
Tap Windows Adapter V9
on Windows

Hello, I started using VPN recently, and I noticed that I have something called Tap Windows Adapter V9 installed on my Windows 10 computer. The worst part is that I cannot connect to the internet when the device is enabled. I am not sure what to do, as I do want to use VPN, but I also want my stable internet connection back. I tried to disable it but it simply re-enabled itself. Is there any way to fix this annoying issue?

TAP-Windows Adapter V9 is a network driver[ref en-4] that allows VPN[ref en-1] to connect to its servers. The default installation location is C:/Program Files/Tap-Windows, and it appears in Device Manager under Network Adapters[ref en-2] category. Unfortunately, some users reported that they have connection problems when TAP Windows Adapter V9 is enabled, and even if the device is disabled, it does enable itself after the reboot of the computer.

TAP-Windows Adapter V9 can appear on your device soon after the installation of VPN client (ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, NordVPN, etc.). Most of the VPN clients use this adapter for private connection to the server.[ref en-3] Therefore, users can be a little confused and not realize where the program came from. Unlike TAP Provider V9 for Private Tunnel, this driver is secure and is used to provide a proper operation for the VPN.

Initially, users should not tamper with this component. However, if issues with connectivity arise, several things could be done. You can restart or completely remove the adapter and then install it again. Typically, issues with it go away, as the cause of this problem is the leftover adapter left from previously used VPN service.

TIP: If you are having issues with your system and error messages keep popping up, we suggest you download and install [d1]. This software is capable of scanning, detecting and automatically fixing issues on operating systems.

Now let's fix TAP-Windows Adapter V9 issues - follow the tips below.

Tip 1. Disable and re-enable the adapter

If you are having problems with the TAP adapter we suggest to first restart it the following way:

• In the taskbar search box, type in Control Panel
• Then go to Network and Intrnet > Network sharing Center
• On the right side of the window, click on Change adapter settings
• Right-click on the local area connection which is using TAP Windows Adapter V9 and select Disable

  

• Wait a few moments, right-click it again and pick Enable

Tip 2. Re-install the TAP Windows Adapter V9 driver

 If you cannot connect to the internet while using the VPN, try re-installing the TAP Windows Adapter V9:

• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager

  

• Under Network adapters select TAP-Windows Adapter V9
• Right-click on it and press Uninstall device
• Follow the on-screen instructions until the process is finished

  

As soon as the driver is gone, try starting your VPN client. Depending on the VPN you use, it might prompt you to install the missing network drivers. If the software shows you the "driver missing" error, simply go to developer's website and re-install the newest version of the VPN client.