This guide explains how to reinstall the TAP adapter using the pnputil tool in PowerShell. Use this method if the standard TAP Adapter reinstallation did not resolve your issue.
Note: These steps are specific to PowerShell. Do not use Command Prompt (CMD).
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Enable Debug Logging in the PIA App
Enable Debug Logging in the PIA App
Before making any changes, enable debug logging so that any errors are captured.
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In the PIA app, select the three dots > Settings.
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Go to the Help tab and check the Enable Debug Logging box.
Uninstall the TAP Adapter
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Search for “PowerShell” from the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
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Locate the Private Internet Access (PIA) TAP driver package by running:
pnputil /enum-drivers | Select-String "Private Internet Access" -Context 2 - Find the line that starts with Published Name: and note the exact filename, such as oem##.inf.
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Remove the PIA driver package by running the following command. Replace oem##.inf with the filename from the previous step:
pnputil /delete-driver oem##.inf /uninstall - If either command shows an error, copy the full output and send it to us.
- Restart your computer.
Reinstall the TAP Adapter
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In the PIA app settings, go to the Help tab and select TAP Adapter in the Reinstall section.
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You will receive a confirmation screen if the reinstallation is successful.
Further Troubleshooting
If PIA still cannot install the TAP adapter, submit your debug report from Settings > Help. After the report has been submitted, create a support ticket and include the 5-character code provided. Also include an updated setupapi.dev.log file in your ticket.