Windows 10 is experiencing instability, while Windows 7 remains stable.
Windows 10 is experiencing instability, while Windows 7 remains stable.
Back with further queries about my Phenom setup. For clarity: Phenom II X4 955 Asus M4A88TD-V EVO/USB3 8GB DDR3-1600 CL9 GTX 750 is being transformed into a local Minecraft server. I'm using Windows 7 because the Rufus-generated USB didn't function properly. My Windows 7 USB worked, so I tried an upgrade method within the OS. However, I lack a product key and prefer not to purchase one. The upgrade process needed a key, which I couldn't obtain. I made a USB with the Microsoft tool and it succeeded. After installing, setting up without a key, adding drivers, etc., I received a confusing spinning circle on a black screen. I attempted a reset but it didn't resolve the issue. What should I do? Should I stick with Windows 7 for reliability or attempt to upgrade to Windows 10 despite the risks?
If this is a server you plan on exposing to the WWW for friends to join I'd want to be on the most up-to-date software for security reasons. Did you try removing the GPU and just using the onboard video? Might improve the situation. IIRC the minecraft server software isn't GPU aware (for compute) so that 750 is really not doing anything for you. It could be an issue with hardware compatibility but even older Intel systems will run Windows 10 fine so I have my doubts. Last ditch I'd consider trying a hypervisor and running Windows 10 in a VM. That or just hosting the server directly on GNU/Linux.
You could submit it to BOINC or F@H. I previously owned an ASUS M4A88T-V EVO/USB3.0 motherboard. It was paired with a Phenom II B55, which I used the built-in core unlocker to upgrade to a quad-core processor. Back then, motherboards included a video chipset. AMD hadn't released iGPUs yet. You can rely on the onboard video for troubleshooting. So, my concern is more about compatibility issues rather than damage. You referred to a black screen with a spinning cursor—so it's functioning somewhat. How long have you been letting it spin?
A bit over an hour passed. Nothing altered. The hum of the fan is pleasant.
That's correct. Have you attempted to bypass the system by entering Safe Mode? We should consider that if Windows isn't resolving the device driver issue, we can always reinstall it.
I couldn't figure it out either. I checked the BIOS settings and saw it's set to 1401—newest version is 2301. I updated it, which made the interface cleaner. My RAM speed was at 1133 MHz, so I need to adjust that. I'm trying to finish booting from the 7 USB drive now and will go to sleep.