Tap-windows Official
tap-windows is a virtual network driver designed exclusively for the Windows operating system. Its primary purpose is to allow software applications to create virtual network interfaces—essentially, simulated network cards that exist entirely in software.
| Feature | (Ethernet) | TUN (IP) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Layer | Layer 2 (Data Link) – Ethernet frames | Layer 3 (Network) – IP packets | | Bridging | Can bridge virtual & real networks | Cannot bridge; only routing | | Use Case | Advanced VPN setups, bridging | Simple point-to-point VPNs | | Analogy | Like adding a virtual Ethernet switch | Like adding a virtual network cable | tap-windows