Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Error 0x00000960 means “The LAN adapter number is invalid,” according to Microsoft’s MS-ERREF Win32 Error Codes specification. That definition describes the condition represented by the code; it does not identify the program that raised it, prove that your network card has failed, or provide a universal repair. The correct fix depends on whether the message appeared during Windows Update, a Windows upgrade or installation, or inside a network-dependent application.
Start by copying the complete message and recording what you were doing when it appeared. Then use the matching procedure below. Microsoft’s reviewed Windows 10 and Windows 11 guidance does not document a code-specific repair for 0x00000960, so treat the steps as context-based troubleshooting rather than a guaranteed cure.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat does error 0x00000960 mean?
Microsoft maps hexadecimal error 0x00000960 to NERR_InvalidLana, described as “The LAN adapter number is invalid.” In this context, LAN refers to a local-area network adapter number used by a networking operation. The short definition is an error-code description, not a diagnosis of a damaged Ethernet or Wi-Fi device.
| What the code establishes | What it does not establish |
|---|---|
Microsoft has assigned the code to NERR_InvalidLana. |
Which application, installer, service or Windows feature displayed it. |
| The operation encountered an invalid LAN-adapter number. | That the physical adapter, cable, router or wireless radio is defective. |
| The wording comes from Microsoft’s MS-ERREF Win32 Error Codes specification. | That one Windows 10 or Windows 11 repair sequence will work in every case. |
Microsoft also notes that the Win32 table provides common usage details and that individual protocol specifications can expand or modify definitions. Consequently, the surrounding message and the operation that failed are essential evidence.
Popular on Amazon
- BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
- EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
- COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.
What should I record before trying a fix?
Preserve the circumstances of the failure before changing networking settings. This information determines which support path is relevant and prevents you from applying an unrelated remedy.
- Copy the complete error text, including any component name, file name, secondary code or button labels.
- Record the program or Windows feature that displayed the message. For example, distinguish Windows Update from a game launcher, VPN client, file-sharing utility or an installer.
- Write down the action immediately before the error: starting an update, joining a network, installing software, signing in, opening a shared folder or changing an adapter setting.
- Note whether the computer is on a home network, a work or school network managed by an administrator, a virtual machine, or a device using a VPN or other network-filtering software.
- Record whether the problem is repeatable and whether a restart changes the result. Do not infer a hardware failure from one occurrence.
Take a screenshot or copy the message into a text file if it may disappear. If another person administers the network or the affected application, send them the full text and these details rather than only the hexadecimal code.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
How do I troubleshoot 0x00000960 when it appears during Windows Update?
Use Microsoft’s normal Windows Update troubleshooter for your Windows version, restart, and check for updates again. These are general update procedures; Microsoft’s published material does not identify them as a verified, code-specific repair for 0x00000960.
Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Select System, then Troubleshoot, and choose Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update and select Run. Follow the prompts in the Get Help or Settings troubleshooter that Windows presents.
- Restart the computer after the troubleshooter finishes, even if it reports that no change was made.
- Return to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Record any new code or message exactly.
Windows 10
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update, choose Run the troubleshooter, and complete the prompts.
- Restart Windows.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
If the same code returns, save the new complete message and note the update name or KB identifier shown beside it. Do not assume that a different update error’s instructions apply merely because the symptoms look similar. If Windows Update displays a different code after the restart, troubleshoot that code in the context of the update attempt.
What should I do if the code appears during a Windows upgrade or installation?
Use Microsoft’s guidance for the exact upgrade or installation route and identify the failure code in setup information or update history. The reviewed Microsoft upgrade and installation material does not list 0x00000960 as a case with a dedicated correction.
Also popular on Amazon
- WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
- AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
- PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
- ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
- COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed
- Write down whether you were performing an in-place upgrade, installing Windows from removable media, restoring an image, or applying a feature update through Windows Update.
- After the failure, open the relevant setup or update history screen and copy every code and explanatory line, not just 0x00000960.
- Restart only when the installer or Microsoft’s instructions indicate it is safe to do so. If the installation is still in progress, interrupting power can create a separate recovery problem.
- Retry using the same official installation method only after you have recorded the new evidence. If the failure repeats, provide the full message, edition and build of Windows, and the installation method to Microsoft support or the organization managing the device.
A code displayed during setup can be emitted by a component that is not the network adapter itself. Without the setup log or the operation name, changing adapter hardware or registry values is speculation.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsHow do I handle 0x00000960 inside an application or network service?
When a game, launcher, file-sharing program, VPN, database client or other network-dependent application shows the code, the application’s documentation and support channel are the appropriate next sources. The Win32 definition alone cannot tell you which adapter-number convention that program expected.
- Close the application normally and restart Windows. Reproduce the same action once, noting whether the error occurs at launch, sign-in, connection, download or another stage.
- Check the application’s own log, diagnostic page or help documentation for a more specific component name. Preserve the log before clearing caches or reinstalling.
- Confirm whether the application is expected to use Ethernet, Wi-Fi, a virtual adapter or a managed connection. If a work or school administrator controls that network, ask them to verify the policy and adapter configuration.
- Install application updates only from the application’s official distribution channel, and document the version that produced the error. If the vendor has a support procedure for
NERR_InvalidLana, follow that procedure rather than substituting a generic Windows fix. - If the error began immediately after a network-policy, VPN or virtualization change, tell the administrator or vendor exactly what changed. Do not delete virtual adapters or alter system configuration solely because the code contains the word “LAN.”
If the program works on a different network or Windows account, that comparison is useful evidence for its administrator; it is not proof that your physical adapter is bad.
Can basic connectivity checks fix the error?
Basic checks can separate a temporary connection problem from an application-specific failure, but they do not correct an invalid adapter number by themselves. Perform only reversible checks first.
- Verify that Airplane mode is off and that the intended Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is selected.
- Restart the computer and, on a home network, restart the router only if other devices also show a connection problem.
- Try the same operation once on the normal connection after the restart. If it fails only in one application, keep the investigation focused on that application.
- If you have permission to inspect the connection, open Settings > Network & internet on Windows 11 or Settings > Network & Internet on Windows 10 and note the adapter and network status shown there.
- On a managed device, do not reset, remove or rename adapters without approval. Such changes can disconnect the computer or violate organization policy.
There is no evidence that replacing a cable, router or network adapter is an appropriate response to this code alone. Consider hardware service only when independent symptoms—such as an adapter missing from Windows, repeated device errors, or a connection that fails across multiple applications and networks—support that conclusion.
Also popular on Amazon
- Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
- Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
- Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
- ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
- Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)
Should I reinstall a network driver or edit the registry?
Not on the basis of 0x00000960 alone. The Microsoft references reviewed for this error do not recommend registry editing, hardware replacement or a generic driver-repair utility as a remedy.
A driver change may be appropriate when Device Manager or the computer manufacturer identifies a separate device-specific problem, such as a missing adapter or a documented driver failure. In that situation, use the manufacturer’s official instructions, create a restore point when Windows offers one, and record the current driver version before changing anything. That is a separate diagnosis from the invalid-LAN-adapter code.
Registry edits copied from an unrelated error guide can prevent Windows or networking services from starting. Do not remove adapter entries, alter protocol bindings or run a cleanup script unless the application vendor, device manufacturer or network administrator provides instructions for your exact system.
When should I contact the application vendor or an administrator?
Escalate when the code returns after the context-appropriate Windows steps, when the affected device is managed, or when the error blocks a work, school or game service that has its own support channel.
Send a concise report containing the complete message, Windows edition and version, application name and version, the operation that failed, the time it occurred, whether a restart changed it, and any related code in update history or logs. State whether the machine uses physical, virtual or managed network adapters. This lets the recipient investigate the adapter-number mapping instead of guessing from the hexadecimal value.
Also popular on Amazon
- Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
- Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
- 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
- Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
- USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
If Microsoft support or the application vendor requests logs, follow its collection instructions and remove passwords, tokens and personal data before sharing them. Keep the original files so you can provide an unmodified copy if requested.
What troubleshooting mistakes should I avoid?
- Assuming the code proves hardware failure. “The LAN adapter number is invalid” is Microsoft’s description, not a physical inspection result.
- Applying a Windows Update fix to an application error. The same hexadecimal code can be surfaced by different operations, and the reviewed sources do not identify one universal context.
- Replacing equipment immediately. A new adapter, cable or router is not evidenced as a fix for this code by itself.
- Editing the registry or deleting adapters. These changes can cause additional connectivity or startup problems and are unsupported without a context-specific instruction.
- Using a different error’s remedy. Record any secondary code and use guidance written for that exact operation.
- Sharing only the code. Support staff need the full message, application, action and network environment to investigate an invalid adapter-number reference.
What is the safest decision path for this error?
Use this sequence to keep troubleshooting proportional to the evidence:
- Capture: save the full message and identify the program or Windows feature.
- Classify: decide whether the event belongs to Windows Update, an upgrade or installation, or a network-dependent application.
- Apply the matching official guidance: run the Windows Update troubleshooter only for an update event; follow the installation guide only for an installation event; use the application vendor or administrator for an application event.
- Reproduce carefully: restart, repeat the same action once, and record any changed code or message.
- Escalate with evidence: provide the complete context and logs when the error persists.
This approach addresses what is known about NERR_InvalidLana without claiming a repair that Microsoft has not documented for Windows 10 or Windows 11.
If you prefer an optional shortcut after trying the manual steps, Outbyte PC Repair can address more than 100 common Windows issues where possible, adjust settings, clean temporary and cache files, and provide privacy and vulnerability checks; it runs on Windows 11, 10, 8 and 7. Its category-based free trial lasts at least two days before a paid subscription, and results vary—it complements antivirus software and does not repair every crash.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently asked questions
Is 0x00000960 a virus warning?
No. Microsoft’s definition identifies an invalid LAN adapter number and does not classify the code as malware. A security product or application could display additional warnings, but those would need to be evaluated separately.
Will restarting my router remove the error?
It may help only when several devices have a simultaneous network outage. A router restart does not change the adapter-number value expected by a Windows component or application, so an isolated 0x00000960 message can return after connectivity is restored.
Also popular on Amazon
- Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
- Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
- Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
- Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
- Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.
Where can I find which adapter Windows is using?
Windows 11 shows connection details under Settings > Network & internet; Windows 10 uses the similarly named Settings > Network & Internet area. For a managed computer, the visible adapter list may include virtual or policy-controlled interfaces, so ask the administrator before changing one.
Recommended Free Tools
Can I use the same fix on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
The underlying code definition is the same, but the Settings paths and troubleshooting screens differ between releases. Follow the path for the installed version and treat any new code produced by the attempt as a separate diagnostic clue.
What information should I give technical support?
Provide the full text, application or feature, Windows edition and version, the action that triggered the message, network type, restart result and any related log or update-history code. That context is more actionable than sending 0x00000960 by itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 0x00000960 a virus warning?
No. Microsoft’s definition identifies an invalid LAN adapter number and does not classify the code as malware. A security product or application could display additional warnings, but those would need to be evaluated separately.
Will restarting my router remove the error?
It may help only when several devices have a simultaneous network outage. A router restart does not change the adapter-number value expected by a Windows component or application, so an isolated 0x00000960 message can return after connectivity is restored.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Where can I find which adapter Windows is using?
Windows 11 shows connection details under Settings > Network & internet; Windows 10 uses the similarly named Settings > Network & Internet area. For a managed computer, the visible adapter list may include virtual or policy-controlled interfaces, so ask the administrator before changing one.
Can I use the same fix on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
The underlying code definition is the same, but the Settings paths and troubleshooting screens differ between releases. Follow the path for the installed version and treat any new code produced by the attempt as a separate diagnostic clue.
What information should I give technical support?
Provide the full text, application or feature, Windows edition and version, the action that triggered the message, network type, restart result and any related log or update-history code. That context is more actionable than sending 0x00000960 by itself.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
