ERROR_AUDIT_FAILED - 606 (0x25E)
{Audit Failed} An attempt to generate a security audit failed.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The error code ERROR_AUDIT_FAILED with the numeric value 606 and hexadecimal representation 0x25E indicates that an attempt to generate a security audit has failed. This error is typically encountered in scenarios where Windows attempts to log or record security-related events, such as login attempts, file access, or other system activities.
Error Details
This error suggests that the system was unable to create or update an audit entry due to various potential issues. The exact cause of this failure can vary and is not explicitly detailed in the error code itself. Developers should refer to the specific context in which the operation failed for more information.
Usage Context
The ERROR_AUDIT_FAILED error can be encountered in a variety of contexts, including but not limited to:
- Security event logging
- Auditing file access or system operations
- Monitoring user activities and permissions
- Compliance with security policies
Developer Interpretation
When encountering this error, developers should interpret it as an indication that the attempt to generate a security audit has failed. This could be due to various reasons such as insufficient privileges, incorrect parameters, or issues within the system's auditing mechanisms.
Related Errors
ERROR_AUDITING_DISABLED(605) - Audit logging is disabled on the system.ERROR_NO_ACE(514) - No access control entries were found for the specified object.ERROR_INVALID_ACL(513) - The access control list is invalid or corrupted.
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_AUDIT_FAILED mean?
A: It indicates that an attempt to generate a security audit has failed. This could be due to various reasons such as insufficient privileges, incorrect parameters, or issues within the system's auditing mechanisms.
Q: How can I troubleshoot this error?
A: Review the operation context and ensure that all necessary permissions are in place. Validate the parameters used for the security audit operations and confirm that the object types are correct.
Summary
The ERROR_AUDIT_FAILED (606) is a generic error code indicating failure to generate a security audit. Developers should interpret this error based on the specific context of the operation and take appropriate actions to resolve any underlying issues.