Ethernet driver not working

[NZNev]

My laptop's ethernet driver hasn't been working, so I uninstalled it. However, the driver that I was using (ExpressVPN TAP Driver) is not listed and I cannot find any drivers with the word 'ethernet' in them in the official HP network driver list. Can someone please point me to where I can find the correct Ethernet driver to reinstall? Thanks

[Max3Aj]

@NZNev, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
It sounds like your laptop's Ethernet functionality was previously using a virtual adapter (ExpressVPN TAP Driver), which is not a physical Ethernet driver. To restore proper Ethernet connectivity, you'll need to reinstall the correct Realtek, Intel, or MediaTek Ethernet LAN driver, depending on your HP laptop model.

Step-by-Step: How to Find and Install the Correct Ethernet Driver

Identify Your Exact HP Laptop Model

• Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter.
• Look for System Model (e.g., HP Pavilion 15-eg0000).

Go to HP’s Official Support Page

• Visit: Official HP® Support

Enter Your Laptop Model

• Type your model number and select it from the dropdown.

Select Your Operating System

• Choose Windows 11 or Windows 10, depending on what you're using.

Download the Ethernet Driver

• Expand the Driver-Network section.
• Look for entries like:
  • Realtek LAN Driver
  • Intel Ethernet Connection Driver
  • MediaTek LAN Driver
• Download and install the appropriate driver.

Restart Your Laptop

• After installation, restart your system to apply changes.

 You can also use HP Support Assistant to automatically detect and install missing drivers: HP Support Assistant | HP® Support
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support