Windivert Driver Cannot Be Installed You Must Restart Your Computer May 2026
The error message "WinDivert driver cannot be installed, you must restart your computer" often appears when users try to run network tools like GoodbyeDPI, ReQrypt, or custom VPN software. This usually happens because an older version of the driver is stuck in memory, or Windows is blocking the new installation due to security settings like Memory Integrity. Why the Error Persists After Restarting A standard reboot doesn't always clear the issue if:
However, because it interacts deeply with the Windows networking stack, Windows protects it aggressively. If a previous installation attempt failed, or if Windows Update installed a generic driver over it, the system puts a "lock" on the driver that requires a reboot to clear. The error message "WinDivert driver cannot be installed,
To resolve the "Windivert driver cannot be installed" error, follow these step-by-step solutions: Privacy & Security >
If you are seeing the error "WinDivert driver cannot be installed, you must restart your computer," you are likely stuck in a loop where restarting doesn't actually solve the problem. This typically happens because an old or orphaned version of the WinDivert service is still registered in your system, or modern security features are blocking the driver from loading. Windows Security >
- Temporarily disable Real-time protection in Windows Security (
Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings). - Disable any third-party antivirus entirely (right-click its icon in the system tray and select "Pause protection").
- Run the installer as Administrator again.
- Re-enable your antivirus after successful installation, and add an exception for your VPN or proxifier program.