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How to Fix Hamachi Service Stopped Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Hamachi is a popular virtual private network (VPN) application used to create secure connections between computers. Sometimes, Windows 11 users encounter the “Hamachi service stopped” error, which prevents the program from working properly. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on Hamachi for gaming or remote work.

Fortunately, fixing this error is usually straightforward. With a few simple steps, you can troubleshoot and restore the Hamachi service to get it running again. This guide will walk you through the solutions in a clear and easy-to-understand way.

Whether you are a beginner or have some experience with Windows troubleshooting, the instructions provided here are designed to help you resolve the issue quickly. Just follow the steps carefully, and you should be back online in no time.

Let’s begin by understanding some quick checks you should perform before diving into detailed fixes.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Start

  • Verify Internet Connection: Hamachi requires an active internet connection to function properly. Make sure your device is connected to the internet.
  • Check Windows Updates: Outdated system files can cause service errors. Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot can fix temporary glitches affecting services.
  • Run Hamachi as Administrator: Right-click the Hamachi shortcut and select “Run as administrator” to avoid permission issues.

Step 1: Restart the Hamachi Service Manually

Windows manages many services in the background, including Hamachi. Sometimes the service stops unexpectedly but can be restarted manually.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter. This opens the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and locate LogMeIn Hamachi Tunneling Engine.
  4. Right-click it and select Restart. If the option is grayed out, select Start instead.
  5. Wait a few seconds and check if Hamachi starts working again.

Why this step is important: The Hamachi client depends on its service to run. Restarting the service can often fix errors caused by temporary software conflicts.

Step 2: Set Hamachi Service to Start Automatically

If the service stops frequently, it might not be set to start automatically with Windows.

  1. Open the Services window again (Windows + R, then services.msc).
  2. Find LogMeIn Hamachi Tunneling Engine and double-click it.
  3. In the new window, find the drop-down menu labeled Startup type.
  4. Select Automatic from the list.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Restart your computer to confirm the changes.

Why this step is important: Setting the service to automatic ensures Hamachi starts every time your PC boots up, reducing the chance of the service stopping unexpectedly.

Step 3: Check and Repair Hamachi Network Adapter

Hamachi creates a virtual network adapter on your computer. If this adapter is disabled or corrupted, the service may fail to run.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for LogMeIn Hamachi Virtual Ethernet Adapter.
  4. If you see a down arrow or red mark, right-click the adapter and choose Enable device or Update driver.
  5. If updating doesn’t help, right-click and select Uninstall device. Then restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.

Why this step is important: The virtual adapter is essential for Hamachi’s network communication. Fixing adapter issues allows the service to function properly.

Step 4: Run Hamachi with Compatibility Mode

Sometimes, running Hamachi in compatibility mode can resolve service issues caused by Windows 11 compatibility.

  1. Right-click the Hamachi shortcut or executable file.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box Run this program in compatibility mode for:
  5. Choose Windows 10 from the dropdown menu.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.
  7. Try launching Hamachi again.

Why this step is important: Compatibility mode helps older software versions run smoothly on newer operating systems by simulating their environment.

Step 5: Reinstall Hamachi

If none of the above steps work, reinstalling Hamachi can fix any corrupted program files causing the service to stop.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps → Installed apps.
  3. Find LogMeIn Hamachi and click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Uninstall and follow the prompts.
  5. Restart your computer.
  6. Download the latest version of Hamachi from the official website.
  7. Install Hamachi and run it as administrator.

Why this step is important: A clean reinstall replaces damaged files and resets all configurations, often solving persistent service errors.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the basic steps don’t solve the problem, you can try some advanced options:

  • Check Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings: Sometimes, security software blocks Hamachi’s service. Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus and test if Hamachi starts.
  • Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Settings: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the following commands one by one:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

Restart your PC after running these commands.

  • Check Event Viewer for Errors: Open Event Viewer (Windows + X → Event Viewer) and look under Windows Logs → System for Hamachi-related errors. These logs can give clues about the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the Hamachi service keep stopping?

The service may stop due to permission issues, corrupted files, network adapter problems, or interference from security software.

Is Hamachi compatible with Windows 11?

Yes, Hamachi is compatible with Windows 11, but sometimes compatibility mode or updates may be needed.

Can I use Hamachi without the service running?

No, the Hamachi service is essential for the VPN to function correctly.

How do I know if Hamachi’s virtual adapter is working?

Check Device Manager under Network adapters. The Hamachi adapter should be enabled and free of warning icons.

Will reinstalling Hamachi delete my network settings?

Yes, uninstalling Hamachi will remove your current network configurations, so you may need to set them up again.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the “Hamachi service stopped” error, consider these final options:

  • Visit the official LogMeIn Hamachi support page for detailed help and updates.
  • Contact Hamachi customer support for personalized assistance.
  • Check community forums and discussions for similar issues and solutions.
  • Consider alternative VPN software if you cannot resolve the issue.

Conclusion

The “Hamachi service stopped” error on Windows 11 can usually be resolved by restarting the service, setting it to start automatically, fixing the network adapter, or reinstalling the program. Understanding why each step is necessary helps you troubleshoot more effectively. Always start with simple solutions and move to advanced options if needed. By following this guide carefully, you can get Hamachi back up and running smoothly.

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