What Is The Microsoft Network Adapter Multiplexor Protocol
The Microsoft Network Adapter Multiplexor Protocol is a kernel-mode driver which is employed for network interface bonding. This requires combining two ethernet cards to give one physical device with the aim to increase bandwidth. The Network Adapter Multiplexor Protocol is commonly used for LAN/WAN connections. Once the NIC teaming starts, the protocol is initiated for one or two adapters. Hence the Network Adapter Multiplexor protocol is only valid for merging two or more adapters.
Normally, the protocol is selected in the teamed network adapter and unselected in the physical network adapters belonging to the NIC teaming. Let’s assume we have two physical network adapters in one team; in this case, the Microsoft Network Adapter Multiplexor Protocol will be unchecked for the two physical adapters and enabled in the teamed adapters.
Should you enable Microsoft network adapter multiplexor protocol or not?
For most window users, the purpose of this protocol is not clear; hence we get multiple questions online from users that if they should enable the protocol or not? In addition, the Microsoft Network Adaptor Multiplexor protocol is normally disabled in most systems. Therefore, users are often troubled thinking about what would happen if they enabled the protocol.
Firstly, most users do not need to worry about this protocol. You will only encounter the network adapter multiplexor protocol if you combine Network Adapters or create a Bridged connection.
If you attempt to enable the protocol manually, you will see a “Network Connections“ error asking, “Are you sure you want to disable these features (Network Adapter Multiplexor Protocol)?”. If you select “Yes”, no change will happen, and the protocol will stay disabled. Likewise, if you select “No”, you will be returned to the previous, and no changes will be made. This happens as it is only possible to enable the protocol when a connection is initiated into a bridge. Thus you should not enable the network adapter multiplexor protocol manually. The protocol is enabled automatically whenever a bridge is launched.
In other words, as long as you’re not making a team of various network adapters, don’t bother enabling this protocol.
Hopefully, now you must have got the answer to your query but if you still bear more questions regarding this feel free to reach us out here.
