Applies to Windows 7

Add or remove a network protocol, service, or client

TCP/IP is automatically installed with Windows, but you can add other protocols, services, or clients. You don't need to install any of these unless you've purchased a specific product or you work in a network environment that requires it. When you install a protocol, service, or client, it's installed for all of your connections.

  1. Open Network Connections by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type adapter, and then, under Network and Sharing Center, click View network connections.

  2. Right-click a local area connection, and then click Properties. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

  3. Click Install.

  4. In the Select Network Feature Type dialog box, do one of the following:

    • To install a client, click Client, and then click Add.

    • To install a service, click Service, and then click Add.

    • To install a protocol, click Protocol, and then click Add.

    Picture of the Select Network Feature Type dialog boxThe Select Network Feature Type dialog box

  5. In the dialog box that appears, select the item that you want to add, and then click OK.

Notes

Notes

  • If you don't want a protocol, service, or client installed for a certain connection, right-click that connection, and then click Properties. On the Networking tab, clear the check box next to the appropriate name.

  • To install IPv4, click the Start button Picture of the Start button, and then type cmd in the search box. In the list of results, right-click cmd, and then select Run as administrator. Type netsh interface ipv4 install, and then press Enter. Restart your computer when prompted.