Add Virtual Network Adapter Windows 11 Link Jun 2026

Check the box for (including Hyper-V Management Tools and Hyper-V Platform). Click OK and restart your computer if prompted. Step 2: Create a Virtual Switch

Once rebooted, open (search for it in the Start menu). In the right-hand panel, click Virtual Switch Manager .

Instead of clicking through menus, use these direct commands to manage your virtual adapters.

: The new adapter will appear in your Network Connections window (accessible via ncpa.cpl ) as "Ethernet" followed by a number. add virtual network adapter windows 11 link

For advanced virtualization needs—such as running VMs with Hyper‑V or configuring WSL2 networking—you’ll want to use (virtual Network Interface Cards).

Ensure the correct physical network adapter is selected (if you chose External). Click and then OK .

: Search for it in the Start menu (ensure Hyper-V is enabled in "Windows Features"). Check the box for (including Hyper-V Management Tools

Click on your at the very top of the device list. Click Action in the top menu bar.

PowerShell offers the fastest route to deploy a virtual network adapter if you prefer command-line tools. This method utilizes the Hyper-V module architecture.

The Device Manager includes a legacy hardware wizard that lets you install the Microsoft KM-TEST Loopback Adapter. This is a virtual network interface used for testing internal network environments. In the right-hand panel, click Virtual Switch Manager

as Administrator:

How to Add a Virtual Network Adapter in Windows 11 Adding a virtual network adapter in Windows 11 allows you to create isolated network environments, test software, or connect to virtual machines. This process can be completed using built-in Windows tools like Device Manager, Hyper-V Manager, or PowerShell.

By default, WSL2 uses a NAT‑based virtual adapter (vEthernet (WSL)). If you need your Linux distribution to appear as a separate device on your local network with its own IP address, you can switch to bridged mode. Create an External Hyper‑V switch, then configure .wslconfig :

60 answers. Sort by: Most helpful. Anonymous. Oct 26, 2023, 2:45 PM. Hi! I just had the exact same issue and was able to solve it. Microsoft Learn Windows 11: Set Up a Virtual Network Adapter Easily

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