The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Error 0x0000071D means that Windows rejected the authentication level requested for an RPC connection. Microsoft maps the code to RPC_S_UNSUPPORTED_AUTHN_LEVEL, with the message “The requested authentication level is not supported.”
This is usually a mismatch between an RPC/COM client and server, a DCOM or Group Policy security requirement, or an application that requests a level the receiving component does not accept. The reliable fix is to identify the client, server, and policy involved, then align the setting with the software vendor’s documented requirement. There is no universal registry value that safely fixes every occurrence.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What error 0x0000071D means
Windows uses Remote Procedure Call (RPC) when one component asks a service or another computer to perform work. COM and DCOM use RPC for many local and networked operations, including management tools, business applications, device workflows, and services that communicate across machines.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchMicrosoft’s Win32 error specification identifies 0x0000071D as RPC_S_UNSUPPORTED_AUTHN_LEVEL: The requested authentication level is not supported.
The hexadecimal number is not, by itself, a diagnosis of a bad cable, a missing driver, malware, or a failed service. It says that the caller requested an authentication level the receiving component or an enforced security policy would not accept. The exact cause depends on the application, the COM/DCOM component, which computer is acting as client and server, Windows security baselines, and domain policy. See the Microsoft Win32 error-code specification.
#1 Best Overall
- [Ultra-Lightweight Ear Buds Designed for Small Ears] Each earbud weighs only 3.7g and features a compact, ergonomic in-ear design made especially for small ears. Secure, low-profile, and comfortable for workouts, all-day wear or overnight sleeping.The ultra-slim profile sits flush in your ear with no hard edges poking or rubbing, so you can even sleep on your side without discomfort.
- [Immersive Stereo Sound with TOZO OrigX Technology] TOZO OrigX tuning delivers clear vocals, balanced mids, and natural stereo sound for music, podcasts, and videos.
- [Long Battery Life for Daily Use] Get up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 32 hours total using the charging case—ideal for workdays, commuting, and extended listening sessions.
- [Bluetooth 5.3 & Stable Connection] Bluetooth 5.3 provides fast pairing, stable wireless performance, and reduced dropouts as you move around home or office.
- [Deep Bass with Clear Vocals] High-performance drivers produce punchy bass while keeping vocals clean and detailed for everyday listening.
Authentication failure versus connection failure
Authentication is only one stage of an RPC call. Windows must first resolve the computer name, reach the target through the firewall, contact the RPC endpoint mapper, and find a running service. A transport or service failure can appear at the same time as an authentication event. Treat these as separate questions instead of changing security settings immediately.
| What to establish | Useful evidence | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Client and server roles | Application log, Event Viewer entry, computer names, service name | Which side requested the authentication level and which side rejected it |
| Transport | DNS result, firewall review, RPC endpoint-mapper test | Whether the request can reach the destination |
| Service availability | Services console, application status, server log | Whether the target component is running and listening |
| Authentication policy | COM/DCOM settings, Local Security Policy, Group Policy, vendor configuration | Which security level is required or enforced |
Capture the context before changing settings
Do not start by importing a registry file or lowering an authentication requirement. First preserve the information that identifies the failing component. A policy change made without this context can hide the original problem, weaken security, or break another application.
- Record the application and operation. Write down what you were doing when the dialog or event appeared: launching an application, connecting to a remote computer, configuring a device, printing, opening a management console, or starting a service.
- Identify the client and server. The client is the process making the RPC call. The server may be a local service, another computer, a COM/DCOM class, or a device-related service. Record computer names, user account, and whether the operation is local or across the network.
- Note the exact time. Record the date, time zone, and whether the error repeats. This lets you correlate the event with updates, policy refreshes, or service restarts.
- Save the event details. Open Event Viewer, inspect the relevant Windows logs, and copy the event ID, source, message, CLSID, AppID, service name, endpoint, and any named account. The application’s own log may contain a more useful component name than the Windows event.
- Capture versions and recent changes. Record Windows edition and build on both computers, application version, service account changes, Windows updates, security-baseline changes, domain-policy edits, and application upgrades. Note when the last known successful operation occurred.
- Preserve a minimal reproduction. Describe the shortest sequence that produces the error and whether the same account, another account, another client, or a local operation succeeds.
Verify the network path and target service
Complete these checks before comparing authentication levels. They do not change security policy and help separate a blocked connection from a rejected authentication request.
1. Confirm name resolution
From the client computer, verify that the server name resolves to the expected address. In a Command Prompt, run nslookup server-name, replacing server-name with the actual host. Check that the result is the intended computer and that the client is using the correct DNS suffix or domain DNS server. If name resolution is wrong, correct DNS or use the organization’s approved name rather than compensating with an authentication change.
Rank #2
- 【IP68 Waterproof Multifunctinal Smart Watch】Torjalph fitness activity tracker smart watch is IP68 waterproof technology ,you can wear it when swimming,handwashing,it's rain-proof which means that you perform multiple exercise modes outside without worrying about sweat or rain corroding your fitness smart watch,and this watch equipped with a 230 mAh large capacity battery magnetic charging ,and this sports activity tracker watch can be used 5-7 days If fully charged.
- 【Larger 1.83'' Full Screen Watch & Multi-dial Selection】1.83 inch full HD color touch screen smart watch for men / women provides excellent 240*284 resolution image quality ,This Bluetooth smart watch offers a better touch experience and remarkable immersion and ,more than 200 watch faces for you to choose from App"Da Fit ", you can change the dial style according to your mood to wear keeping the world on your wrist
- 【Accurate Activity Tracker Smart Watch 】sports watch activity tracker uses sweat and dust resistant breathable silicone strap, our Fitness Tracker Smart Watch for Android iOS Phones supports 12 sports modes,walking,running,bicycle,swimming,badminton,basketball,football,rope skipping. This bluetooth calls smart watch for men women is lightweight and stylish, bringing more convenient and relaxing sports experience while also providing more protection.
- 【Your 24 Hour Personal Daily Health Monitor】Fitness watch for women men full touch screen IP67 waterproof bluetooth smartwatch for Android iOS Phones with heart rate blood pressure monitor multifunction Andriod smart watch with steps counter sleep monitor sports fitness watch, monitoring blood oxygen saturation allows you to understand your physical condition in real time to track fitness progress ,to know your health status in time.
- 【More Functions Bluetooth Call Smart Watch】This fitness activity smart watch full screen for iPhone and Android phones includes a bunch of new features including:The bluetooth smart watch can hang up the phone, receive and display WhatsAPP /Text /Facebook /Twitter /Messenger reminder.Support sedentary reminder, alarm clock, stopwatch, timer,weather information,music control, remote camera control compatible with Android 5.0 and above or iOS 9.0 and above smartphones.
2. Test the RPC endpoint mapper path
RPC commonly begins through the endpoint mapper on TCP port 135, but the application may subsequently use additional dynamically assigned RPC ports. In PowerShell, you can test the first hop with Test-NetConnection server-name -Port 135. A failed test points to name resolution, routing, firewall, or server availability; it does not prove that authentication settings are correct. A successful port-135 test also does not prove that every required dynamic RPC port is permitted.
3. Review firewall rules on both sides
Check Windows Defender Firewall and any network firewall for the organization’s approved inbound and outbound RPC rules. Verify that the rule applies to the active network profile and to the correct source and destination. Do not broadly expose RPC to untrusted networks just to make the error disappear. If a domain administrator manages firewall policy, obtain the rule change through that process.
4. Confirm the target service is running
On the server, open services.msc and locate the service named in the event or application log. Check its status, startup type, dependencies, and service account. Start or restart it only if that is consistent with the vendor’s instructions and your change-control process. A stopped or repeatedly crashing service must be diagnosed as a service problem even if 0x0000071D is also present.
Recommended Free Tools
5. Compare local and remote behavior
If a local operation succeeds but the remote operation fails, focus on network scope, server policy, credentials, and DCOM permissions. If both local and remote operations fail on the same computer, focus on the application’s configuration, local COM/DCOM policy, and the service itself.
Rank #3
- [Low Noise High Fidelity] New bee guitar cord with 22AWG oxygen-free-copper center conductors provides enhanced signal transfer, the PVC insulation material and the high-density stranded copper double shield provide noise rejection for quiet operation
- [Ideal for Choice] New bee 1/4 straight and right angle metal connectors, ensures a secure connection in any instrument, pedal, or amp jack. L shape great fro on stage guitar stands
- [Wide Compatible] Suitable for mixer, power amplifier, microphone, effector, decoder, equalizer, electoronic organ, electric guitar, electric bass and other electronic equipments. Widely used in the installation of smart home, karaoke speaker, professional stage audio, etc
- [Easy Disassemble] Making incidental repairs quick and easy! Very nice, flexible cable
- [Dont Hesite to Order] 24 hours customer services and professional technology team are standing by
Find the authentication setting that is actually failing
The phrase “authentication level” can refer to a COM/DCOM setting, an application-specific option, or a security policy imposed by Windows or a domain. Identify which layer owns the requirement before changing anything.
Inspect the event for a component identity
In Event Viewer, search around the failure time for entries that include a CLSID, AppID, service name, executable, user, or computer. Copy these identifiers exactly. A CLSID or AppID lets an administrator map the event to a COM/DCOM component in Component Services and, where appropriate, to its registered application. Avoid editing registration data simply because a CLSID appears; the identifier is evidence for finding the owner, not a repair instruction.
Review Component Services settings
On the affected computer, an administrator can open Component Services by running comexp.msc or by navigating through Administrative Tools. Locate the identified DCOM application and review its authentication and launch/activation permissions. Compare the current value with the application vendor’s documentation and the organization’s security baseline. A setting that works for one component may be inappropriate for another, and a domain policy may override a local value.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Check Local Security Policy and Group Policy
For a standalone or locally managed computer, review the relevant entries in Local Security Policy (secpol.msc). In a domain, inspect the effective Group Policy rather than only the local editor. Policy locations and labels can vary by Windows release and administrative template, so use the wording shown on the affected system and the baseline approved by your administrator. If a policy is configured centrally, changing the local value will not provide a durable fix.
Rank #4
- Digital Family Calendar: BSIMB digital calendar wall touch screen puts an end to your chaotic life. Designed for busy families, the digital calendar keeps you organised and in step with your family. Assign different colours and tasks to each family member to make family scheduling easier and more intuitive.
- Easy Setup and Auto-Sync: Plug in, connect to WLAN and auto-syn your electric calendar in minutes. Digital wall calendar compatible with Google calendar, iCloud calendar, Outlook calendar, Cozi calendar and Yahoo calendar. Add events directly on the device or through the ecalendar app. Electronic calendar stays current whether you're at work or traveling—no manual updates needed.
- All-In-One Home Assistant: Smart calendar builds habits and encourage independence with personalised chores. Display daily meal plan to reduce the daily ‘What's for dinner?’ stress. To-do lists keep track of everything you want. Turning chores into valuable achievements with stars and rewards, making life easier and more enjoyable.
- Manage Anytime Anywhere: BSIMB electronic calendar for family stay connected with the powerful ecalendar app. Access and manage your digital wall calendar anytime, anywhere with free features like stars & rewards, photo screensaver, chore charts, meals plans, to-do lists etc. Electronic planner paid features like Magic Import tailor advanced tools for users with special needs.
- Stay in Touch with Loved Ones: Share photos or videos from your phone to electronic wall calendar with app, instantly update your life moment, and keep in touch with your family, especially those who are far away; you can also surprise your smart calendar digital wall by sending him a wish card; it's also great for keeping tech-illiterate elders in touch with the youngsters.
Check the application’s own configuration
Some software exposes RPC, COM, authentication, identity, or secure-channel options in its management console or configuration file. Use the vendor-documented value for the installed version. Do not assume that a setting named “authentication” is interchangeable with a Windows-wide DCOM setting; the application may negotiate a specific protocol or level internally.
Align client and server requirements
Write down the required level on each side and compare them. The client must request a level the server supports, while the server and any enforced policy must permit that level. If the vendor requires a stronger level than the current policy permits, update the policy or software as directed. If an older client requests a level the server no longer accepts, update or reconfigure the client instead of weakening the server.
| Setting owner | What to compare | Safe decision |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Its documented RPC/COM authentication option and version | Use the vendor-supported value for that release |
| COM/DCOM component | Component authentication and activation requirements | Match the component’s documented requirement and permissions |
| Local Security Policy | Effective local authentication rules | Change only under an approved baseline |
| Domain Group Policy | Resultant policy on client and server | Ask the domain administrator to change the central policy when needed |
Correlate the first failure with recent changes
Find the earliest occurrence, then compare it with the change record. Common triggers include a Windows update, a security-baseline revision, a domain-policy refresh, an application upgrade, a changed service account, or a migration of the client or server.
- Review Windows Update history on both computers and note the installation date of security or quality updates.
- Ask the domain administrator whether an authentication, DCOM, firewall, or hardening policy changed at the same time.
- Check whether the application or its server-side component was upgraded, reinstalled, or moved.
- Verify that the service account still exists, has not expired, and is permitted to log on as required by the application.
- Compare a working computer with the failing one, documenting differences rather than copying registry data blindly.
If a documented update or policy change introduced the mismatch, use the vendor’s compatibility guidance or an approved rollback plan. Removing security updates or weakening a baseline should be a last-resort, time-limited decision made by the system owner, with a plan to restore the supported configuration.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Apply the supported change, refresh policy, and retest
- Back up the current configuration. Export or record the relevant application, policy, and DCOM settings according to your organization’s change procedure. Create a restore point only if your environment permits it; a restore point is not a substitute for a configuration backup.
- Change one owner-controlled setting. Apply the vendor- or administrator-approved authentication value on the correct client, server, policy, or application. Do not apply a generic registry value when the responsible component is unknown.
- Refresh policy when required. On managed systems, use the organization’s normal policy-refresh process. An administrator may run
gpupdate /forcewhere permitted, then verify the resultant policy rather than assuming the refresh succeeded. - Restart the affected component. Restart the application or service if the vendor says the setting is read at startup. Reboot the client or server only when required and after coordinating downtime.
- Repeat the identical operation. Use the same account, client, server, and task that produced the error. Record whether the operation succeeds, changes to a different error, or still logs 0x0000071D.
- Verify the logs. Confirm that new events no longer report the code and check for warnings about weaker authentication, denied activation, or a different unavailable service.
- Restore the prior value if necessary. If the approved change causes another application to fail or lowers the security posture without resolving the problem, revert it and escalate with the captured evidence.
If the error appears during printer or device setup
A printer workflow can expose an RPC or service problem, but printer troubleshooting does not change the official meaning of 0x0000071D. Microsoft’s Windows 10 and Windows 11 guidance recommends using the automated printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app, checking connections, reinstalling the printer with the current driver, and clearing or resetting the Print Spooler. Follow those steps while continuing to investigate the underlying RPC client, server, and policy.
Run the Get Help printer troubleshooter
- Open the Get Help app from the Start menu.
- Search for printer connection or printing problems and start the automated troubleshooter.
- Apply only the suggested changes that match the affected printer and record any diagnostic result.
- Retry the same installation or print operation and check Event Viewer for a new event.
Check the physical and network connection
For USB printers, reconnect the cable directly to the computer and try another known-good port. For network printers, verify the printer’s address, name resolution, network profile, and reachability from the client. Confirm that the print server is online and that the account has permission to connect. A printer that is offline or unreachable needs a connectivity fix before an authentication-policy change can help.
Reinstall the printer and current driver
- Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners in Windows 11, or the corresponding Printers & scanners page in Windows 10.
- Select the affected printer and choose Remove.
- Restart the computer if Windows or the printer manufacturer requests it.
- Install the current driver and connection package supplied for the exact printer model and Windows version.
- Add the printer again, then print a test page and repeat the operation that originally failed.
Clear or reset the Print Spooler
- Open
services.msc, locate Print Spooler, and choose Stop. - Remove stuck job files from
%WINDIR%System32spoolPRINTERSonly after the spooler is stopped and only if your organization permits this cleanup. - Return to the Services console and choose Start for Print Spooler.
- Retry the installation or print job. If the spooler stops again, inspect its event log and the printer driver rather than repeatedly deleting the queue.
Microsoft also maintains guidance for offline printers in Windows 10 and 11. That guidance notes that, after October 14, 2025, Microsoft no longer provides free Windows 10 software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. The date affects Windows 10 support status; it does not alter the definition of 0x0000071D. See Troubleshooting offline printer problems in Windows and Microsoft’s printer connection and printing guide.
Is error 0x0000071D dangerous?
The code itself is an authentication negotiation error, not a statement that the computer is infected. Its security significance comes from the remedy: lowering an authentication requirement or opening broad RPC firewall access can expose services or permit weaker connections. Keep the strongest level supported by the application and your organization’s baseline. Make changes on the specific component and network scope involved, document them, and remove temporary exceptions when the vendor supplies an updated fix.
Common mistakes that make the problem worse
- Changing a random registry value. There is no single registry edit that is valid for every RPC or COM environment. The required level may belong to an application or centrally enforced policy.
- Confusing reachability with authentication. A failed DNS lookup, blocked port, or stopped service must be repaired separately.
- Changing only one side. A client and server with incompatible requirements will continue to fail if only one configuration is altered.
- Ignoring effective Group Policy. A local setting can be overwritten at the next policy refresh.
- Testing a different operation. Always retest the same client, server, account, and action so that the result is meaningful.
- Repeatedly restarting without evidence. Restarting may reload a setting, but it cannot correct an unsupported requirement or a blocked network path.
When to escalate and what to provide
Escalate to the application vendor, domain administrator, or service owner when the required authentication level is undocumented, the policy is centrally managed, or the mismatch persists after the supported configuration is applied. Provide a concise evidence bundle:
- The exact hexadecimal code 0x0000071D and the text RPC_S_UNSUPPORTED_AUTHN_LEVEL.
- Event IDs, timestamps, source names, CLSID/AppID, service name, and the complete relevant event message.
- Client and server hostnames, Windows editions and build numbers, application and driver versions where relevant, and the account used.
- Current effective COM/DCOM, Local Security Policy, Group Policy, firewall, and application authentication values.
- DNS and RPC endpoint-mapper test results, service status, and whether local or alternate-client tests succeed.
- The first-failure time, recent updates or policy changes, exact reproduction steps, and every change already tested.
This information lets an administrator distinguish an authentication mismatch from a transport, permission, service, or compatibility problem without weakening the environment unnecessarily.
Bottom line
0x0000071D is Windows’ name for an unsupported RPC authentication level. Start by identifying the RPC/COM client and server, prove that the network path and target service work, then align the application and policy settings with the vendor’s supported security requirement. Handle printer and device workflows with Microsoft’s Get Help, driver, connection, and Print Spooler steps, but do not mistake those workflow repairs for a universal RPC fix.
Quick Recap
As an optional shortcut after the manual checks, Outbyte PC Repair can address more than 100 common Windows issues where possible, including broken system elements and shared DLL problems, while also offering settings tweaks, temporary-file cleanup, privacy tools, vulnerability checks, a real-time boost, file shredder, and crash logging. It runs on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7; its free trial lasts by category for at least two days before a paid subscription. It complements antivirus software rather than replacing it, results vary, and no tool repairs every crash.
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.
