Tap-windows

| Feature | (Ethernet) | TUN (IP) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Layer | Layer 2 (Data Link) – Ethernet frames | Layer 3 (Network) – IP packets | | Bridging | Can bridge virtual & real networks | Cannot bridge; only routing | | Use Case | Advanced VPN setups, bridging | Simple point-to-point VPNs | | Analogy | Like adding a virtual Ethernet switch | Like adding a virtual network cable |

This usually happens due to Windows Security settings blocking the installation of an unsigned or third-party driver. tap-windows

is a virtual network driver designed exclusively for the Windows operating system. Its primary purpose is to allow software applications to create virtual network interfaces—essentially, simulated network cards that exist entirely in software. | Feature | (Ethernet) | TUN (IP) |

If you have ever used a VPN (Virtual Private Network), especially open-source clients like , you have almost certainly used tap-windows, even if you didn’t know it. If you have ever used a VPN (Virtual

When installed, tap-windows adds a new "network connection" to Windows, visible in the Control Panel’s Network Connections folder. This adapter behaves like a physical Ethernet card but has no hardware.