When trying to log in to a computer or a network, you might encounter an error message that states “0x18 Pre-Authentication Information Was Invalid”. This error can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to access an essential program or file. In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about the 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error and share practical tips to fix it.
What Is the 0x18 Pre-Authentication Information Error?
The 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error is a commonly reported error that occurs when the pre-authentication feature fails to verify the password. This issue primarily affects Windows machines, and it usually happens when users attempt to log in to a computer or network.
Pre-authentication is a process that requires users to authenticate before accessing essential services or resources. The feature is enabled by default in Windows networks to enhance the security of sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access. When a user enters a password, Windows pre-authentication checks its validity before allowing access to resources.
If the pre-authentication feature fails to verify the password, you’ll receive the 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error message. The error essentially means that the pre-authentication server failed to validate the password.
What Causes the 0x18 Pre-Authentication Information Error?
Several factors can cause the 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Authentication-related Issues: The error might occur if there are authentication issues between the client and server. For example, if there’s a problem with the session key or the Kerberos tickets, the error message might appear.
2. Server Configuration Issues: The 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error could also arise due to server configuration issues. If there are problems with the Domain Name System (DNS) or server time synchronization, the error message could pop up.
3. Network Connectivity Issues: If there are network connectivity issues, such as congestion or packet loss, it could cause the pre-authentication server to fail to validate the password.
How to Fix the 0x18 Pre-Authentication Information Error
Fortunately, the 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error is fixable. Here are some practical solutions that you can try:
1. Reset the Computer Password: If the error occurs when trying to log in to a particular computer, you can try resetting the computer password. You can use a password reset disk or a Windows installation media to reset the password.
2. Check the Network Connectivity: If the error is network-related, you can check the network connectivity by pinging the servers and making sure that the DNS, time synchronization, and other server-related settings are correctly configured.
3. Check the Authentication Settings: If the authentication settings are incorrect, it could cause the 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error. You can check the settings by opening the Local Security Policy and verifying that the authentication settings match the network’s requirements.
Conclusion
The 0x18 pre-authentication information was invalid error is an annoying error that might prevent you from accessing your computer or network. However, with the above tips, you can fix the issue and regain access to your files and resources. Remember to check the network connectivity, reset the computer password, and verify the authentication settings to fix the error.
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