If you see an error related to Retrieving the COM class factory (when opening STEGIS) :

or

This error usually means that : The installation wasn’t run with administrator privileges, or The setup failed to properly register MapWinGIS components in your system.
To fix this:

• Reinstall STE using “Run as Administrator”
  (Right-click the installer and select Run as administrator).
• If the problem persists, manually install the required component:
  Download and install the MapWinGIS Component from this link:
  https://hwstr.ir/Download/MapWinGIS.exe

or

• STE requires the Microsoft Access Database Engine.
• Microsoft Access Database Engine is completely free and you can install it from this link:
  https://www.hwstr.ir/Download/accessdatabaseengine_X64.exe

Unable to connect to STE servers. An active internet connection is required to run STE. Please check your internet connection and try again. If your internet is working, make sure STE is not blocked by Windows Firewall, Windows Security, or your antivirus software. If the problem continues, try connecting from a different network (for example, using a mobile hotspot) or use a trusted VPN service to check if your internet provider is blocking access.

…it means STE could not reach its servers. This can happen for several reasons.
Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

1️⃣ Check Your Internet Connection

• Open your browser and try visiting any website.
• If it doesn’t work, restore your internet connection before running STE.

2️⃣ Allow STE Through Windows Firewall

Sometimes Windows Defender Firewall blocks STE, especially on Public networks.

Option A – Safest Method (Recommended)

1. Open Start Menu → Windows Security.

2. Click Firewall & network protection.

3. Click Allow an app through firewall.

4. Click Change settings.

5. Find STE in the list and check both Private and Public boxes. If not listed, click Allow another app, browse to the Sediment Transport Estimator.exe, and add it.

6. Save and restart STE.

Option B – Quick Test (Not Recommended for Long-Term Use)

• Go to Windows Security → Firewall & network protection → Public network.
• Turn Microsoft Defender Firewall from On to Off.
• Try STE again.

⚠️ This reduces protection — use only for testing, then turn it back On.

3️⃣ Check Your Antivirus or Security Software

• Some antivirus programs block applications from making network connections.
• Add STE to your antivirus exceptions/allowed apps list.

4️⃣ Try a Different Network

• Some ISPs or networks block access to certain IP ranges.
• To test:

• If STE works through a VPN, your ISP is likely blocking access to STE’s server.
• Use a reputable VPN provider to bypass restrictions.

6️⃣ Contact Support

• If you still can’t connect:

1. Note the time you tried connecting.

2. Include your public IP address (check via https://whatismyip.com).

3. Email the details to stesoftware1@gmail.com

• ✅ Tip: If you’re in a restricted environment (corporate/university networks), you may need your IT administrator to whitelist STE.