Windivert Driver Cannot Be Installed You Must Restart Your Computer -

Extract the archive and locate WinDivert.dll and WinDivert64.sys (for 64-bit systems).

Now install your app (Proxifier/Windscribe/etc.) again. The WinDivert driver should install successfully.

Fixing the "WinDivert driver cannot be installed" Error Without a Restart

The error message typically indicates that a previous instance of the WinDivert driver is locked in a pending deletion state, or the system lacks the necessary administrative permissions to register the new kernel driver. While the error suggests a system reboot, this prompt often persists even after multiple restarts if the underlying registry keys or active handles are not properly cleared. Extract the archive and locate WinDivert

WinDivert operates as a kernel-level driver ( WinDivert32.sys or WinDivert64.sys ). Because it interacts directly with the network stack, Windows imposes strict security and operational constraints. The "restart your computer" loop generally stems from four specific system conditions: WinDivert not working on Windows 10 20H2 #253 - GitHub

Look for background processes associated with network bypass tools, VPNs, proxies, or custom firewalls (e.g., goodbyedpi.exe , clash.exe , requiem.exe ). Right-click the process and select .

Antivirus suites regularly flag WinDivert.sys or WinDivert64.sys as a "HackTool" or "Trojan" due to its packet-injection capabilities. Open -> Virus & threat protection . Fixing the "WinDivert driver cannot be installed" Error

then reboot and reinstall.

⚠️ This is a security feature. Disabling it can make your system more vulnerable to certain types of attacks. It's a best practice to re-enable this feature after you have successfully installed and set up your application to maintain your system's security.

If you are using an older version of WinDivert, or a modified version packaged with a niche tool, Windows 10 or 11 might block it because it lacks a valid digital signature. Because it interacts directly with the network stack,

Press the , type cmd , right-click Command Prompt , and select Run as administrator .

The "WinDivert driver cannot be installed" error, while daunting, is rarely a sign of a serious system failure. It is almost always resolved by ensuring the driver is installed correctly and is allowed to run by the operating system. By following these steps in order—starting with a simple restart and moving through to more advanced system configurations—you should be able to get your application working again. If you have any other tips or questions from your own experience, please share them below.