How to Fix Spotify Error Code Auth 74 in Windows

By | 2024-10-10

Spotify is a favorite music streaming platform for many of us, but occasionally, you might run into annoying errors that disrupt your listening experience. One such issue is Error Code Auth 74. This problem typically occurs when Spotify is having trouble connecting to its servers, and it’s often related to network settings, VPNs, or even your location. But don’t worry! In this guide, I’ll walk you through a few simple steps to get Spotify working again on your Windows device.

What Is Error Code Auth 74?

Error Code Auth 74 usually shows up when Spotify can’t authenticate your login properly due to a connection issue. This could be because:

  • You’re using a VPN or proxy.
  • There’s a network issue or firewall blocking Spotify.
  • The region you’re connecting from is restricted.

Let’s dive into the possible solutions!

Step 1: Disable Your VPN or Proxy

Spotify can sometimes block VPN or proxy connections, especially if they’re associated with regions where Spotify isn’t available. If you’re using a VPN or a proxy:

  1. Turn off your VPN: Disconnect it if it’s running in the background.
  2. Disable proxy settings:
  • Open the Start menu and search for Internet Options.
  • Go to the Connections tab and click LAN settings.
  • Uncheck the box that says Use a proxy server for your LAN and click OK.

Once that’s done, restart Spotify and try logging in again.

Step 2: Change Your DNS Settings

Sometimes your default DNS server might be causing trouble. Switching to a public DNS, like Google DNS, can help:

  1. Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
  2. Right-click on your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  3. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and input the following:
  • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
  • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  1. Click OK to save the settings.

Restart Spotify and check if the error is resolved.

Step 3: Adjust Your Firewall or Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus might block Spotify from accessing the internet. You can fix this by creating an exception for Spotify:

  1. Open the Start menu and search for Windows Security.
  2. Select Firewall & network protection and then click Allow an app through firewall.
  3. Look for Spotify on the list. If it’s not there, click Change settings, then Allow another app, and browse to Spotify’s executable file (spotify.exe).
  4. Make sure both Private and Public boxes are checked for Spotify, then click OK.

Try launching Spotify again after these changes.

Step 4: Check for Region Restrictions

Spotify isn’t available everywhere. If you’re traveling or using an IP address that’s in a restricted region, this error might pop up. In this case, the only real solution is to ensure your connection is coming from a supported country. If you’re in a restricted region and need to use Spotify, switching to a VPN with a location where Spotify is available might help, but this could still lead to connection issues as Spotify doesn’t officially support all VPNs.

Step 5: Reinstall Spotify

If none of the above solutions work, a clean reinstall might fix the issue:

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
  2. Find Spotify in the list of installed programs, right-click, and select Uninstall.
  3. After uninstalling, go to the Spotify website and download the latest version of the app.

This ensures you have a fresh installation without any corrupted files or settings that could be causing the error.

Spotify Error Code Auth 74 can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable by adjusting network settings, disabling VPNs, or reinstalling the app. By following these steps, you should be able to get back to your music in no time! If the error persists, you might want to check Spotify’s official support page for any region-specific issues.

Let me know how these fixes work for you, and feel free to ask any questions if you need further help!

Author: dwirch

Derek Wirch is a seasoned IT professional with an impressive career dating back to 1986. He brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience that is invaluable to those embarking on their journey in the tech industry.

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