Microsoft Loopback Adapter Windows 11 Fix Jun 2026

Technical Guide: Microsoft Loopback Adapter on Windows 11 Microsoft Loopback Adapter (now officially known as the Microsoft KM-TEST Loopback Adapter

The loopback adapter has no physical link, so it will always show "No network access" or "Unidentified network". That’s expected — it’s not meant for external connectivity.

Open PowerShell as Administrator.

If your computer loses internet access after configuring the loopback adapter, you likely filled in the field in the IPv4 properties. Windows is trying to route your internet traffic through the virtual loopback adapter. Remove the gateway address to fix this. Issue 3: Code 10 error (Device Cannot Start) microsoft loopback adapter windows 11

This usually indicates a driver conflict or an issue with Windows Core Isolation security features. Try updating your Windows 11 build, or reinstall the adapter using an elevated PowerShell prompt: powershell

: Simulating a network connection for software that requires an active interface to run.

In these situations, the loopback adapter provides just enough of a network presence to satisfy the software's requirements. Technical Guide: Microsoft Loopback Adapter on Windows 11

Windows 11 is modern, but many legacy workflows still rely on loopback adapters. Here is why you might need one:

If you've searched for the Microsoft Loopback Adapter in Windows 11 and couldn't find it, you're not alone. Beginning with Windows 8, Microsoft renamed the loopback adapter to .

In the Manufacturer list, select Microsoft . Select Adapter: In the Model list, select " Microsoft KM-TEST Loopback Adapter Go to product viewer dialog for this item. " . Click Next . If your computer loses internet access after configuring

If you prefer PowerShell or CMD (Admin), this method is faster and scriptable.

Because it is classified as legacy virtual hardware, it is hidden by default in the standard configuration panels. This comprehensive guide covers what the loopback adapter does, how to install it via Device Manager or PowerShell, how to configure its IP properties, and how to troubleshoot common issues in Windows 11. What is the Microsoft Loopback Adapter?