DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMAT_ERROR - 9001 (0x2329)

DNS server unable to interpret format.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Meaning

This error code is returned by the Windows DNS client or server when a message received from another DNS server cannot be interpreted due to an incorrect format. The specific issue relates to the Resource Record Set (RRSet) section of the DNS message, which contains the actual data being queried or updated.

Error Details

The DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMAT_ERROR error code indicates that the DNS response received from a server is malformed and cannot be processed correctly. This can occur due to various reasons such as incorrect encoding, missing fields, or invalid values in the RRSet section of the DNS message.

Usage Context

This error typically occurs during DNS query processing where the client sends a request to a DNS server for specific resource records (e.g., A records, MX records). If the response received from the server is not formatted according to the expected standards, this error will be returned. It can also occur in scenarios involving dynamic updates or zone transfers.

Developer Interpretation

When encountering DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMAT_ERROR, developers should consider that the DNS message being processed does not conform to the standard format as defined by the DNS protocol (RFC 1035, RFC 2181). This could be due to a variety of issues such as incorrect encoding, missing or invalid resource record types, or improperly formatted fields within the RRSet.

Related Errors

  • DNS_ERROR_RCODE_REFUSED - Indicates that the server is unwilling to perform the requested operation.
  • DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMERR - Similar to this error but more generic in nature, indicating a format error without specifying the exact type of message issue.

FAQ

Q: What does DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMAT_ERROR mean?

A: This error indicates that the DNS server received a malformed response from another DNS server or client. The specific issue is with the format of the Resource Record Set (RRSet) section in the DNS message.

Q: How can I troubleshoot this error?

A: Review the DNS query and response messages for any obvious formatting issues, such as missing fields or incorrect encoding. Ensure that all resource records are properly formatted according to the DNS protocol standards.

Summary

The DNS_ERROR_RCODE_FORMAT_ERROR is a specific error code indicating that a DNS message received by the client or server cannot be interpreted due to an incorrect format in the RRSet section. Developers should ensure that all DNS messages conform to the standard protocols and formats to avoid this issue.