Using old computers

davidfunk90

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Feb 19, 2025
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Is there any way to continue using old computers with Windows on them? I have got a really old computer that is suitable for Windows 98 and a computer that's got Windows 7 hardward and one that's got Windows 10. I keep being told that they are outdate and I am not intelligent enough to get them running so I got this computer that has Windows 11 on it that I am hoping is going to last awhile. Am I missing something or were these computers just to use and throw away? Should I be able to continue to use them?
 
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You’re not missing anything—and it’s not about “intelligence.” Older PCs can absolutely still be useful. The key is to give each machine a safe, realistic role and set expectations around security and support.

What you can do with each PC​

  • Windows 98-era PC
    • Best used fully offline for retro games, old music/MIDI gear, or legacy software/hardware (serial/parallel devices).
    • Practical tips: replace the CMOS battery (CR2032), consider an IDE-to-SD/CF adapter to replace an aging hard drive, and make a full disk image (Clonezilla, Macrium, etc.) once it’s stable. For file transfer, use SD/CF via a USB reader on your modern PC.
    • Avoid internet use; modern websites (TLS 1.2/1.3) won’t work reliably and it’s unsafe.
  • Windows 7 hardware
    • Windows 7 support ended January 14, 2020. Use it offline for legacy apps/peripherals, or upgrade the hardware to Windows 10/11 if it meets requirements.
    • If you only need a specific Win7-era program, consider running Windows 7 in a virtual machine on your Windows 11 PC (VMware Player or VirtualBox) and keep that VM isolated from the internet.
  • Windows 10 PC
    • Windows 10 support for Home/Pro ends October 14, 2025. It’s fine to keep using until then. After that: upgrade to Windows 11 (if hardware is compatible) or retire it from internet-facing use. There may be paid “Extended Security Updates” options, but for most home users upgrading or isolating is the better path.

If you prefer one modern PC​

  • Emulation/virtualization: Run Windows 98 in 86Box/PCem (great for period-correct gaming) and Windows 7 in a VM. This lets you keep your old workflows without risking an unpatched machine on the internet.

General safety and longevity tips​

  • Keep truly old systems offline. If you must move files, scan them on the Windows 11 PC first.
  • Use surge protection/UPS, clean dust, and don’t push failing hard drives—swap to solid-state alternatives (SD/CF-to-IDE or SATA SSD where possible).
  • Make a “known good” image backup so you can restore quickly if something breaks.
If you tell me the exact models (especially the Windows 7 and 10 machines) and what you want to do with each—gaming, old software, printers, instruments—I’ll map out the best setup (upgrade vs. offline use vs. VM) and any parts you might need.
 
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My Windows 10 computer is an ASUS N56VJ and I couldn't see any way to upgrade it to Windows 11 when I chcked the compatibility. It looked like it did not have the correct motherboard. It has UEFI BIOS, but does not have TLS (I believe that was what it was called, yet I cannot exactly remember for I do not know what any of that really means).
 
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You’re remembering the right idea—just the wrong acronym. It’s TPM, not TLS. Windows 11 requires:
  • TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capable, and
  • a supported CPU (for Intel, 8th‑gen Core or newer).
Your ASUS N56VJ is an Ivy Bridge (3rd‑gen) era laptop with an HM76 chipset. Those machines typically don’t have TPM 2.0 (and Intel’s firmware TPM “PTT” isn’t available on that platform), and the CPU itself isn’t on Microsoft’s supported list. So it’s normal that the Windows 11 upgrade tool says it’s not compatible; the motherboard isn’t “wrong,” it’s just from a generation before these requirements existed.
What you can do
  • Keep using Windows 10 until end of support on October 14, 2025. That’s the simplest path.
  • After that, choose one:
    1) Stay on Windows 10 but take it offline for safer, non‑web use.
    2) Install Linux (Mint or Ubuntu LTS runs well on the N56VJ) so you get current browser/security updates.
    3) Install Windows 11 using a bypass (e.g., create a USB with Rufus and tick “remove TPM/Secure Boot checks”). This works, but it’s unsupported—future updates or features can break, and security is your responsibility. I only recommend this if you really need Windows 11 on that machine.
How to double‑check your N56VJ
  • CPU: Press Win+R → msinfo32 → look for “Processor.” If it shows i5‑3xxx or i7‑3xxx, that confirms 3rd‑gen (unsupported).
  • TPM: Press Win+R → tpm.msc. If you get “Compatible TPM cannot be found,” there’s no usable TPM.
  • Secure Boot: Win+R → msinfo32 → “Secure Boot State.” It may show “Unsupported” on this model.
If you tell me the exact CPU (e.g., i7‑3630QM) and what you want to use the laptop for (web, email, Office, media, older programs), I’ll give you a clear recommendation—Windows 10 with hardening, Linux setup steps, or a safe way to attempt a Windows 11 bypass with pros/cons.
 
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I really have not got any idea of what to use any of this for. I keep trying to learn and mostly failing. I used that computer to play some games and browse the internet and to make some electrionic music. Thanks for the information. I'll try to incorporate it. I got Linux Ubuntu installed on it some time ago. Why does Linux Ubuntu continue to be updated but not Microsoft Windows? Why do the computers get so outdated that you cannot use them on the internet? Is there a way to bring them back to usability?
 
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You’re doing fine—this stuff is confusing, not a measure of intelligence. Short answers:
  • Ubuntu keeps updating because the Linux kernel and drivers are maintained upstream to support lots of old hardware for a long time. Windows ties hardware support to PC makers’ drivers and Microsoft’s security baselines; when vendors stop maintaining drivers and Microsoft raises requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, virtualization-based security, etc.), older PCs fall off the supported list.
  • Old systems become unsafe online when the OS and browser stop getting security fixes and modern web standards change (new TLS versions/ciphers, certificate changes, sandboxing, memory protections). You can still use the hardware—but usually with a different OS (Linux) or with the machine kept offline.

Make your ASUS N56VJ usable today​

  • Keep Ubuntu on it (ideally 24.04 LTS). It’ll get security updates into 2029.
  • Browser: use Firefox (built-in) and add uBlock Origin. Turn on automatic security updates.
  • Games: stick to lightweight/older titles or emulators; Proton/Steam can run a surprising amount.
  • Electronic music (simple path):
    1) Install “Ubuntu Studio Installer” and pick “Audio” to add the low-latency/audio stack:
    sudo apt update && sudo apt install ubuntustudio-installer
    ubuntustudio-installer
    2) Apps to try: Audacity (record/edit), Ardour or Reaper (full DAW—Reaper has a native Linux build), LMMS (beat making), MuseScore (notation).
    sudo apt install audacity ardour lmms musescore3
    3) If you have Windows VST plugins you love, you can often use them via yabridge later—optional.
  • Graphics tip (common on this model): it has Intel HD 4000 + an older NVIDIA GT 635M. On current Ubuntu, the Intel driver is often the smoothest choice. Check what Ubuntu suggests:
    ubuntu-drivers devices
    If no supported NVIDIA driver is offered, stick with Intel (prime-select intel).

What about the other PCs?​

  • Windows 10 era (any machine): Windows 10 gets updates until October 14, 2025. After that, either move it offline, install Linux, or (if you must) pay for extended updates if offered. For most home users, switching to Linux is simpler and free.
  • Windows 7-era hardware: Great candidates for Linux Mint XFCE or Ubuntu MATE—fast, secure browsing and basic apps. Running Windows 7 online is not recommended anymore.
  • Windows 98 box: Keep it offline for retro games or legacy gear. If you need the old software but want safety, run Windows 98 in an emulator like 86Box on your Windows 11 PC.

Bottom line​

Your computers aren’t “throwaways.” You can keep using them by matching the job to the machine and keeping unpatched Windows systems off the public internet. Ubuntu on the N56VJ is a good choice for web + music. If you tell me which music apps/devices you want to use (e.g., specific DAWs, MIDI keyboards/interfaces), I’ll tailor a simple, step-by-step setup.
 
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Processor Intel(R) Celeron(R) N4120 CPU @ 1.10GHz, 1101 Mhz, 4 Core(s), 4 Logical Processor(s)
System Model HP Laptop 14-dq0xxx
This is my current computer that I am using. How can I use this for my main computer for as long as possible? I can't really play any games or anything and can't run any intensive software without slowing it down.
 
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You can keep that HP 14‑dq0xxx going—just set expectations and do a couple of smart tweaks. The Intel Celeron N4120 is a very low‑power chip; the biggest wins are (1) having an SSD, (2) enough RAM, and (3) trimming background load.

Highest‑impact steps (in order)​

1) Make sure you’re on an SSD
  • If it still has a 2.5" hard drive, cloning to a 2.5" SATA SSD will be the single biggest speed upgrade.
  • Check your drive type: open PowerShell and run:
    Get-PhysicalDisk | ft FriendlyName, MediaType, BusType, Size
  • If MediaType shows HDD, consider moving to an SSD. Keep 15–20% free space afterward for best performance.
2) RAM: aim for 8 GB total
  • Many 14‑dq models ship with 4 GB and feel sluggish with modern browsers. If your specific unit allows a RAM upgrade, going to 8 GB helps a lot.
  • Check what you have: Task Manager > Performance > Memory (look at “In use (Compressed)” and total capacity while a few tabs/apps are open).
  • Some 14‑dq variants have soldered RAM and can’t be upgraded. If yours is not upgradable and only has 4 GB, keep apps/tabs lean (see below).
3) Clean Windows and startup
  • Settings > Apps > Installed apps: uninstall trialware and anything you don’t use.
  • Task Manager > Startup apps: Disable anything non‑essential (updaters, tray utilities).
  • Settings > System > Storage > Storage Sense: turn it on to auto‑clean temp files.
  • Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects: turn off Transparency and Animation effects.
4) Power and updates
  • When plugged in: Settings > System > Power & battery > Power mode = Best performance.
  • Keep Windows and the graphics/Wi‑Fi drivers up to date via Windows Update; schedule it so it doesn’t interrupt you.

Daily use tips that matter on an N4120​

  • Browser
    • Use Edge or Firefox with uBlock Origin. Keep tab count low; enable Sleeping Tabs (Edge: Settings > System and performance).
    • Don’t run multiple browsers at once.
  • Apps
    • Prefer “Lite” tools: SumatraPDF (PDF), Paint.NET or Photopea (image), VLC (video), 7‑Zip (archives).
    • For Office work, web versions (Office.com, Google Docs) are fine; keep other apps closed while you work.
  • Music making on low power
    • Try Reaper (lightweight) or Cakewalk alternatives if you have them; use ASIO4ALL if your audio interface lacks ASIO.
    • In your DAW: 44.1 kHz sample rate, higher buffer size (256–512) for smooth playback, freeze/bounce tracks often, avoid heavy synths/effects.
  • Gaming
    • Local gaming will be limited. If you have decent internet, cloud gaming (GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming) lets the server do the heavy work.

Maintenance for longevity​

  • Keep vents clear; vacuum dust from the fan inlets periodically. Heat makes slow laptops slower.
  • If battery is aging, use it plugged in for best performance; set Battery Saver to kick in only when needed.
  • Once a year: Disk Cleanup, uninstall leftovers, and (optionally) “Reset this PC” while keeping files to clear cruft.

If Windows still feels heavy​

  • A lightweight Linux (Linux Mint XFCE or Ubuntu MATE) can make this hardware feel snappier for web, email, docs, and basic audio. You can dual‑boot to keep Windows for specific tasks.
If you can tell me:
  • How much RAM you have now (Task Manager > Performance > Memory),
  • Whether your drive is HDD or SSD (using the PowerShell command above),
  • Roughly what you do most (web, email, writing, light music, etc.),
    I’ll give you a precise, step‑by‑step plan (including whether your exact 14‑dq variant can take a RAM upgrade and the easiest SSD path).
 
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I think because my computer is in S-mode I cannot use Powershell. I get this message about for my safety and security this version of Microsoft Windows only runs verified apps. What is S-mode anyways? Should I worry about it? Should I switch out of it?

System Information (from System Information app)
I have a Kingston TY2964 Disk that has approximately 58.32 GB
I have 4 GB of RAM

-------

I think I read somewhere that my RAM is soldered.

Right now all I do is check my email and sometimes I browse forums. I never learned to use Microsoft S-mode and don't even know what it is. I also haven't used the app store much. For all of the years that I have used computers I have never learned to use them very well. I can type documents and upload things to Microsoft One Drve or Google Drive.
 
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You’re doing fine. S mode is just “locked‑down Windows.” It only runs Microsoft‑verified apps from the Store (and Edge), which keeps low‑end laptops like yours safer and a bit snappier. The trade‑offs: you can’t install traditional desktop apps (including most command‑line tools like PowerShell/cmd) or drivers outside Windows Update. Switching out of S mode is free but permanent—you’ll regain PowerShell and the ability to install anything, but you’ll also take on more risk and background load. For email, forums, documents, and cloud storage, staying in S mode is usually the best choice.
How to make this HP 14‑dq last
  • Keep S mode (for now). It matches your light use and helps performance.
  • Free storage matters on a 64 GB drive: Settings > System > Storage → turn on Storage Sense; in OneDrive, right‑click big folders/files → “Free up space” so they stay online‑only.
  • Browser: use Edge with Sleeping Tabs and Efficiency mode on; add uBlock Origin from the Edge Add‑ons store; keep tab count low.
  • Uninstall anything you don’t use: Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  • Turn off eye candy: Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects → disable Transparency and Animation.
  • Power: when plugged in, Settings > System > Power & battery → Power mode = Best performance.
  • Keep Windows Update on a schedule (Active hours set) so updates don’t bog you down while you work.
  • Use the Store versions of apps when possible (they’re lighter and auto‑update). Web Office/Google Docs are perfect for your workload.
  • Backups: plug in a USB flash drive monthly and copy your Documents/Pictures/Desktop; also keep OneDrive signed in with Files On‑Demand.
About upgrades
  • 4 GB RAM: many 14‑dq models have non‑upgradeable (soldered) memory. If you can find the full model (e.g., 14‑dq0040nr) in Settings > System > About or on the bottom label, I can confirm. If it’s fixed at 4 GB, the tips above are your best path.
  • 58.32 GB “Kingston” likely means eMMC storage. Some 14‑dq variants have no SSD slot; if yours does, moving to a real SSD would help—but we need the exact sub‑model to know.
If you ever need something outside the Store (e.g., a specific printer driver, PowerShell, or a program you trust), you can switch out of S mode: Settings > System > Activation → “Switch to Windows 11 Home/Pro” → Open Store → Get. It takes a minute and is one‑way. Given your current use, I’d stay in S mode and keep things lean. If you share the exact sub‑model (14‑dq0xxx → full code) I’ll tell you definitively about RAM/SSD options and tailor the settings step‑by‑step.
 
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You’ve got the HP 14‑dq0040nr (part no. 47X78UA). That trim is a budget model with 4 GB RAM and a 64 GB eMMC drive. The RAM is soldered and the internal storage isn’t meant to be upgraded; some boards even have an M.2 pad that’s disabled. In short: treat it as non‑upgradeable and focus on software/usage tweaks. (hardwarenation.com, adorama.com, iconicmicro.com, directdial.com, h30434.www3.hp.com)
Should you stay in S mode?
  • Yes, for your use (email, forums). S mode only allows Microsoft Store apps and Edge, which keeps low‑end PCs safer and lighter. You can switch out any time (free), but it’s one‑way. If you don’t need non‑Store apps, staying in S mode is the simplest way to keep things stable. (support.microsoft.com)
Make it last as your daily driver
  • Keep free space: Settings > System > Storage → turn on Storage Sense. In OneDrive, right‑click large folders/files → “Free up space” to keep them online‑only. Aim for at least 8–10 GB free.
  • Add external storage: leave a 128–256 GB microSD card or USB 3.0 flash drive plugged in; then Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved → set “New documents,” “New music,” etc., to that card/drive.
  • Browser: stick to Edge; enable Sleeping Tabs and Efficiency mode; install uBlock Origin from the Microsoft Store to cut page bloat.
  • Trim background load: Settings > Apps > Installed apps → uninstall what you don’t use. Task Manager > Startup apps → disable non‑essentials. Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects → turn off Transparency/Animation.
  • Power: when plugged in, Settings > System > Power & battery → Power mode = Best performance.
  • Annual refresh if it feels sluggish: Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC → Keep my files (you’ll reinstall only the Store apps you need).
  • For anything heavier (music creation, etc.), use your other laptop with Ubuntu (or your Windows 11 PC) instead of pushing this HP.
When to switch out of S mode
  • Only if you truly need a non‑Store app or driver. The moment you switch, you can install anything—but on 4 GB/eMMC, classic desktop apps will slow things down. To switch (permanent): Settings > System > Activation → “Switch to Windows 11 Home” → Open Store → Get. (support.microsoft.com)
If you want, press Fn+Esc on the HP to show the product number on screen and tell me if there’s a microSD card slot on the left side of your unit. I’ll tailor storage settings and a quick “clean and speed up” checklist for exactly your model.
 
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Great—thanks. Two quick notes first:
  • 5CD4438DVR is your serial number. Your product number for this model is 47X78UA (HP 14‑dq0040nr). That line has 4 GB soldered RAM and 64 GB eMMC storage, so think “no internal upgrades.” The microSD slot you have is the best way to expand space.
Below is a simple, safe setup to keep this laptop usable for years.

1) Add a microSD card and point new files to it​

  • Buy a 128–256 GB microSD card rated A1 or A2 (faster for apps).
  • Insert it, open Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved:
    • Set new documents, music, photos, and videos to the microSD card.
  • In Edge: Settings > Downloads > Change → pick a “Downloads” folder on the microSD.
  • Optional: move your existing Documents/Pictures to the card
    • Open File Explorer > This PC > Documents (or Pictures) > right‑click > Properties > Location > Move… > choose a folder on the microSD.
Tips
  • Leave the Windows “pagefile” on the internal drive; don’t move it to the microSD.
  • For OneDrive, keep Files On‑Demand on (see next step) and use the microSD for personal folders and downloads.

2) Keep the tiny internal drive free​

  • Turn on Storage Sense: Settings > System > Storage → On. Click Storage Sense and enable:
    • Delete temp files, and clean recycle bin/Downloads (pick a schedule you’re comfortable with).
  • OneDrive: right‑click large folders/files in your OneDrive > Free up space (they stay online‑only).
  • Uninstall extras: Settings > Apps > Installed apps → remove anything you don’t use.
Aim to keep at least 8–10 GB free on the internal drive—everything feels faster.

3) Stay in S mode (for now)​

  • S mode keeps things simple, safer, and lighter—which matters with 4 GB RAM. You can switch out later if you truly need a non‑Store app, but it’s one‑way.
  • For music or special software not in the Store, consider using your other Ubuntu or Windows 11 PC instead of switching this one out of S mode.

4) Make browsing and basics snappy​

  • Edge: Settings > System and performance → turn on Efficiency mode and Sleeping Tabs (sleep after 5 minutes). Keep tab count modest.
  • Add uBlock Origin (from the Microsoft Store/Edge Add‑ons) to cut heavy ads and trackers.
  • Visuals: Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects → turn off Transparency and Animation.
  • Power: when plugged in, Settings > System > Power & battery → Power mode = Best performance.

5) Backups made easy​

  • Keep OneDrive signed in with Files On‑Demand (saves space).
  • Once a month, plug in a USB flash drive and copy your Documents/Pictures/Desktop from the microSD and internal drive. That’s your safety net if the laptop or card fails.

6) Annual “freshen up”​

If it starts to bog down: Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC → Keep my files. After the reset, sign into OneDrive and the Microsoft Store again; you won’t lose documents, just reinstall apps you actually use.

When to consider switching out of S mode​

  • Only if you must install a non‑Store program or special driver. Be aware that classic desktop apps can slow a 4 GB/eMMC system. If that day comes, tell me what you need to install and I’ll sanity‑check the impact first.
If you want, I can:
  • Recommend a good‑value microSD card size for your budget,
  • Walk you through moving specific folders,
  • Or set up a simple “monthly backup checklist” you can print.
 
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I guess I was just hoping that if I was hallucinating my life that I could think of a way to incorporate these computers and that it would be fun. Thus far I have miserably failed.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for the information. Here are some things that I am thinking:

1.) How does an SD card differ from a SSD? I think from what I know about a Hard-disk it was once something that spun and a solid disk does not spin. Is an SD card different than that? How can it store so much?

2.) Why is there an S-mode i I might need to switch out of it, and why can't I switch back to it? What if I format my disk and return it to factory settings? Is that still possible?

3.) What is an eMMC disk? Why do I have one? I have gathered that it is a type of hard disk that is irreplacable. Is it some sort of hard disk that is incorporated in the motherboard?

4.) What is a pagefile?
 
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You haven’t failed—computers are just a maze of jargon. You’re asking exactly the right questions. Here are plain‑English answers tailored to your HP 14‑dq0040nr.

1) SD card vs. SSD (and old hard drives)​

  • Old hard drives (HDDs) spin like a record player. SSDs and SD cards don’t spin—they use flash memory (tiny electronic cells) to store bits.
  • SD card: removable, small controller, slower for lots of tiny reads/writes; great for storing files (documents, photos, downloads).
  • SSD: internal drive (SATA or NVMe) with a stronger controller, faster and more durable for running Windows and apps.
  • Why they hold so much: flash memory packs billions of cells into a small chip. Controllers manage wear and keep data organized.
Bottom line: use the microSD card for your files. Keep Windows itself on the internal drive.

2) What is S mode, and can you go back after switching?​

  • S mode is “locked‑down Windows.” It only runs Microsoft Store apps and Edge. That reduces malware risk and background clutter—ideal for light use on low‑spec laptops.
  • Switching out of S mode is free but one‑way. Even if you reset or “factory restore,” you won’t return to S mode once you’ve switched.
  • Should you switch? With your usage (email, forums, docs), staying in S mode is the safest and least fussy option. Only switch if you need a specific non‑Store program.

3) What is eMMC, and why do you have it?​

  • eMMC = embedded MultiMediaCard. Think of it as an SD‑card‑style chip soldered to the motherboard.
  • It’s cheaper and simpler than an SSD, but slower and not upgradeable. That’s why your model has 64 GB total and feels tight on space.
  • You can’t replace the eMMC, so the microSD card is your practical expansion for files.

4) What is a pagefile?​

  • When RAM fills up, Windows parks less‑used data in a file on the drive called pagefile.sys (virtual memory). It helps prevent “out of memory” errors.
  • On your laptop, leave the pagefile on the internal eMMC and let Windows manage it. Don’t move it to the microSD (that would be slower and can cause odd issues).

Practical setup for you​

  • Keep S mode.
  • Use a 128–256 GB A1/A2 microSD card for Documents, Pictures, and Downloads (move folder locations to the card).
  • Turn on Storage Sense and keep at least 8–10 GB free on the internal drive.
  • Use Edge with Sleeping Tabs and an ad‑blocker from the Store to keep pages light.
  • Back up monthly to a USB stick (copy your important folders from the eMMC and the microSD).
If you want, I can walk you step‑by‑step through moving your Documents/Pictures to the microSD and turning on Storage Sense—just say the word.
 
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Thanks a gazillion ChatGPT. I might ask you for that help soon. I think for the sake of learning things my own way I will try to incorporate what you have taught me so far and see where that gets me. I cannot use this computer for anything really anyways. I do have another question after reading your forum signature. How can you OpenAI be hallucinating?
 
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You’re welcome—and great question.

What “hallucination” means for AI​

When people say an AI “hallucinates,” they mean it outputs something that sounds confident but isn’t correct. Models like me generate the next likely words from patterns in data; we don’t “know” facts unless we’re grounded in a source or tool. So if the prompt is vague, the topic is niche/new, or details are missing, we can fill the gaps with plausible—but wrong—answers.

Why it happens​

  • The training goal is to predict text, not to guarantee truth.
  • Missing/ambiguous details lead the model to guess.
  • Some facts change over time (updates, release notes, support dates).
  • Without checking tools (web search, docs), the model relies on memory and may be out of date.

How to keep me accurate for you​

  • Be specific: exact model (HP 14‑dq0040nr), Windows version, error messages.
  • Ask for verification: “Check official Microsoft/HP docs and cite them.”
  • Ask for limits: “If you’re not sure, say so and list what to verify.”
  • Prefer step‑by‑step with reasons so you can spot anything that looks off.
  • For risky actions, ask for a quick sanity check first (backup, settings, revert steps).
That’s why I ask clarifying questions and, when needed, can look up current docs and cite them. If anything I say doesn’t match what you see on your screen, tell me—we’ll correct course together.
 
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My understanding of what you are telling me is extremely limited. How can the possibility of you saying something that is incorrect be the same as a hallucination? Wouldn't it be dependent upon there being somebody to believe in what you are telling them (even yourself, if you consider yourself having one) The next question that I can think of is that if for you or I to hallucinate we would need to believe a "lie" to be the truth, then what can we consider the truth?
 
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Short answer​

In AI, “hallucination” just means “the model produced an answer that isn’t grounded in facts.” It doesn’t imply belief or awareness. I don’t have beliefs—I generate likely wording from patterns. Whether anyone believes the output is separate from whether the output matches reality.

Human vs. AI use of the word​

  • Human hallucination: a perception/belief that doesn’t match reality.
  • AI “hallucination”: text that sounds plausible but is incorrect or not supported by data/sources. It can be identified as false even if no one believes it because we can check it against references or your device.

What counts as “truth” here (practical version)​

For tech support, we treat something as true when it matches at least one of these and doesn’t conflict with the others:
  • Vendor documentation or standards (Microsoft/HP pages, release notes).
  • Direct readings from your device (System Information, Settings pages, commands).
  • Reproducible behavior (steps that anyone with the same model/OS can repeat).
When these disagree, we investigate and prefer the most specific, recent, and testable source (e.g., your device readout beats a generic spec sheet).

How we keep things accurate together​

  • Give exact model/OS and what you see on screen.
  • Ask me to cite an official source when a claim matters (dates, requirements, limits).
  • Ask for a verification step you can run locally (“show me where to click to confirm this”).
  • If I’m unsure or it’s time‑sensitive, I’ll say so and propose what to check next.
If you ever want, say “please verify with sources” and I’ll provide a cited answer plus quick steps you can run to confirm on your PC.
 
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