ERROR_BAD_TOKEN_TYPE - 1349 (0x545)
The type of the token is inappropriate for its attempted use.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Background
The ERROR_BAD_TOKEN_TYPE error code is encountered when a token, which represents an identity in the security context of a process or thread, does not match the expected type for its intended use. This error typically arises from incorrect parameter values passed to functions that require specific types of tokens.
Error Details
This error indicates that a function was called with a token that is not compatible with the operation being performed. For example, if a function expects an impersonation token but receives a primary token, this error will be generated.
Common Causes
- Invalid Parameter Values: Passing a token of incorrect type to a function expecting a different type.
- Incorrect Object Type: Using a token that is not appropriate for the operation being performed.
Real-World Context
This error can occur in various scenarios, such as when attempting to impersonate a user or when performing operations that require specific types of tokens. It is crucial to ensure that the correct type of token is used based on the intended operation.
Is This Error Critical?
The criticality of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. If the operation involving the token fails, it may indicate a security issue or an incorrect configuration. However, it does not necessarily imply a system-wide failure and can often be resolved by correcting the parameter values passed to the function.
How to Diagnose
To diagnose this error, follow these steps:
- Review Operation Context: Determine which operation is failing and ensure that the correct type of token is being used for that operation.
- Validate Parameters: Verify that all parameters, including tokens, are correctly specified according to the function's requirements.
- Confirm Object Types: Ensure that the object types match the expected types required by the functions involved in the operation.
- Verify Input Data: Check if any input data is corrupted or invalid, which could lead to incorrect token types being passed.
How to Resolve
To resolve this error, take the following actions:
- Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that all parameters are correctly specified according to the function's requirements.
- Adjust Operation Context: If the operation context is incorrect, adjust it to match the expected conditions for the token type.
- Restore Data: If data corruption is suspected, restore or correct the corrupted data.
- Retry Operation with Valid Inputs: After making necessary corrections, retry the operation to see if the error persists.
Developer Notes
When working with tokens in Windows API functions, it is essential to understand the specific types of tokens required by each function. Always consult the documentation for the exact token type expected and ensure that your code correctly handles different types of tokens as needed.
Related Errors
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_BAD_TOKEN_TYPE mean?
A: This error indicates that a function was called with an inappropriate token type for the operation being performed.
Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?
A: Ensure that you are using the correct type of token for each API call and validate all parameters before making function calls.
Summary
The ERROR_BAD_TOKEN_TYPE error is a specific parameter depth issue in Windows, indicating an inappropriate use of tokens. By understanding the context and ensuring correct parameter usage, developers can effectively diagnose and resolve this error.