DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME - 9561 (0x2559)
DNS name is entirely numeric.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Background
The DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME error code is a specific diagnostic error that occurs when the Windows DNS client or resolver encounters a domain name that consists entirely of numeric characters. This error is indicative of an invalid input in the context of DNS name resolution.
Error Details
This error typically arises during attempts to resolve fully qualified domain names (FQDNs) where the host portion of the FQDN contains only digits, which are not valid for standard DNS naming conventions. The presence of such a numeric-only name can lead to failure in resolving the corresponding IP address.
Common Causes
- Invalid Parameter Values: The input provided to the DNS resolution function includes a domain name that is entirely numeric.
- Incorrect Object Type: The operation being performed expects a standard DNS name, but receives an invalid or non-standard format.
Real-World Context
This error can occur in various scenarios where DNS names are used, such as when configuring network settings, setting up host files, or performing operations that rely on correct domain names. It is important to ensure that all domain names adhere to the standard naming conventions to avoid such errors.
Is This Error Critical?
The criticality of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. In most cases, it indicates a configuration issue rather than a severe system failure. However, if left unresolved, it can prevent network connectivity or application functionality that relies on correct DNS resolution.
How to Diagnose
To diagnose and resolve DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME, follow these steps:
- Review Operation Context: Ensure that the operation being performed is appropriate for the context in which it is used.
- Validate Parameters: Check the input parameters, particularly the domain name, to ensure they are valid and conform to standard DNS naming conventions.
- Confirm Object Types: Verify that the object types involved in the operation are correct and expected.
- Verify Input Data: Ensure that all data provided is accurate and free from errors or inconsistencies.
- Check Limits or Constraints: Confirm that there are no system limits or constraints that could be causing the issue.
How to Resolve
To resolve DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME, take the following actions:
- Correct any invalid parameter values, ensuring that domain names do not consist solely of numeric characters.
- Adjust operation context if necessary, ensuring it aligns with standard DNS naming practices.
- Restore or correct any corrupted data that may have led to the issue.
- Retry the operation using valid inputs and parameters.
Developer Notes
Developers should ensure that all input parameters are validated against standard DNS naming conventions. This can be achieved through custom validation logic or by leveraging existing Windows API functions designed for DNS resolution.
Related Errors
ERROR_INVALID_NAME(2)ERROR_BAD_NETPATH(67)ERROR_NOT_SUPPORTED(50)
FAQ
Q: What does the DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME error mean?
A: It indicates that a DNS name is entirely numeric, which is not valid for standard DNS naming conventions.
Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?
A: Ensure that all domain names used in your application or configuration are valid and conform to standard DNS naming conventions.
Q: Can this error affect network connectivity?
A: Yes, if the operation is related to resolving a numeric-only name, it may prevent network connectivity for services relying on correct DNS resolution.
Summary
The DNS_ERROR_NUMERIC_NAME error code signifies that a domain name used in DNS resolution operations consists entirely of numeric characters. This can lead to failure in resolving IP addresses and should be addressed by ensuring all names adhere to standard naming conventions.