TAP-Windows 9.24.7

TAP-Windows ❘ Commercial ❘
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out of 5 votes ❘
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Latest Version
9.24.7 Safe to install

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TAP-Windows NDIS 6 driver provides virtual network adapters for OpenVPN on Windows

Human-built. AI-enhanced.

Minh Ong

10/23/2026

This open-source NDIS 6 driver, maintained by OpenVPN, supplies TAP virtual network adapters for OpenVPN and other apps on Windows 7 and later (ARM64 desktops need NDIS 6.30), but it is aimed at developers and VPN users rather than end users, and building or test-installing an unsigned build requires tools, Python 2.7, and disabling Secure Boot or enabling Test Mode.

Enhanced VPN Connectivity with TAP-Windows

TAP-Windows is an essential network driver software that empowers VPN users by creating secure, virtual network interfaces known as TAP devices. This innovative solution facilitates encrypted communication between VPN clients and servers, ensuring your data remains private and protected across public networks.

Robust Network Driver Supporting Multiple Protocols

Designed as a reliable network driver, TAP-Windows supports the TAP network protocol and integrates seamlessly with popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN. It emulates physical network adapters, enabling encrypted tunnel creation for secure data transfer.

Security and Privacy Enhancements

By using TAP-Windows, users benefit from encrypted data transmissions that guard sensitive information against interception and unauthorized access. This increases the security standards of your internet connections and maintains your privacy online.

Multi-Platform Compatibility for Versatile Use

Compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS, TAP-Windows offers versatile support across various operating environments. This broad compatibility makes it an ideal choice for users seeking secure, cross-platform VPN solutions.

Seamless Integration with OpenVPN

TAP-Windows is optimized to function flawlessly with OpenVPN, one of the most popular open-source VPN protocols. This compatibility ensures smooth setup, reliable connections, and encrypted data exchanges for enhanced online security.

Creation of Virtual Network Adapters

The software creates virtual TAP devices on user devices that emulate physical network interfaces. These virtual adapters are fundamental in establishing secure VPN tunnels that facilitate encrypted traffic flow between client and server.

Reliable and Secure Data Transmission

With TAP-Windows integrated into your VPN setup, enjoy dependable, encrypted data transmission. The software guarantees that your online communications are shielded from eavesdropping and tampering during every session.

Overview

TAP-Windows is a Commercial software in the category Security developed by TAP-Windows.

The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked TAP-Windows for updates 3,644 times during the last month.

The latest version of TAP-Windows is 9.24.7, released on 01/10/2025. It was initially added to our database on 07/30/2012.

TAP-Windows runs on the following operating systems: Android/iOS/Windows/Mac/Linux.

Users of TAP-Windows gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Pros

Implements an NDIS 6.20/6.30 virtual TAP network adapter driver that runs on Windows 7 and higher.
Serves as the TAP adapter component used by OpenVPN and other VPN apps.
Replaces the deprecated NDIS 5 tap-windows driver, which is being phased out as Windows drops NDIS 5 support.
Source code is open on GitHub, and signed releases are distributed through OpenVPN's download servers.
Can be installed, updated, or removed from the command line with tapinstall.exe (devcon), which suits scripted deployment.

Cons

It is a driver rather than a standalone application, so it provides no user-facing VPN functionality on its own.
On ARM64 desktop systems it requires NDIS 6.30, so NDIS 6.20 is not enough there.
It does not support Windows XP, which requires the older NDIS 5 tap-windows driver instead.
Building it from source requires Python 2.7, a Windows Driver Kit or EWDK, and a code signing certificate.
Unsigned development builds require disabling Secure Boot and enabling Windows test mode, which adds setup effort.

FAQ

What is TAP-windows?

TAP-Windows is a network driver used to provide virtual tap device functionality on Windows. It is a component of the OpenVPN open source VPN solution.

What is a virtual tap device?

A virtual tap device is a software interface that behaves like a physical network adapter. It allows software applications to communicate with other devices on the same network and is commonly used in VPN solutions.

Do I need TAP-Windows to use OpenVPN?

Yes, TAP-Windows is required for OpenVPN to create a secure VPN connection.

Can I remove TAP-Windows from my computer?

If you no longer use OpenVPN or any other application that relies on virtual tap devices, you can uninstall TAP-Windows like any other program.

Is TAP-Windows free?

Yes, TAP-Windows is free and open source software licensed under the GNU GPL.

Can TAP-Windows be used on other operating systems besides Windows?

No, TAP-Windows is designed specifically for Windows and is not compatible with other operating systems by default.

How can I update TAP-Windows?

The easiest way to update TAP-Windows is to download and install the latest version of OpenVPN, which includes the newest version of the driver.

Is TAP-Windows safe to use?

Yes, TAP-Windows is a trusted component of OpenVPN and has been thoroughly tested for security and stability. However, like any software, it is important to keep it up-to-date to ensure any security vulnerabilities have been addressed.

Can I configure TAP-Windows settings?

Yes, TAP-Windows can be configured within the OpenVPN application settings. However, it is not recommended to make changes unless you have experience with networking and VPN protocols.

Where can I get help with TAP-Windows?

If you have any questions or issues with TAP-Windows, you can visit the OpenVPN community forums for support and advice.

Minh Ong

I'm Minh, a software engineer and author with a passion for exploring and writing about the latest in software and technology. With my experience in software development and a specialization in software updates and content creation, I bring a deep understanding of the tech landscape to my reviews and articles. My focus is on providing you with comprehensive insights into general software topics and the latest industry news.

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3,644 users of UpdateStar had TAP-Windows installed last month.

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