ERROR_DIRECTORY - 267 (0x10B)
The directory name is invalid.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_DIRECTORY error code, with the numeric value of 267 and the hexadecimal representation of 0x10B, indicates that a directory name provided to an API function is invalid. This can occur in various file system operations where a directory name is expected.
Error Details
This specific error typically arises when the operating system encounters a directory name that does not conform to the expected format or contains characters or sequences that are not allowed within a directory name on the Windows file system. The exact nature of the invalidity can vary, but common issues include:
- Use of reserved characters in the name
- Exceeding the maximum allowable length for a directory name
- Containing non-printable or control characters
- Being an empty string
Usage Context
This error code is commonly encountered in file and directory management operations such as creating, renaming, or deleting directories. It can also appear when attempting to access or traverse through a directory structure.
Developer Interpretation
When encountering ERROR_DIRECTORY, developers should consider the following:
- Verify that the directory name being used does not contain any invalid characters or sequences.
- Ensure that the length of the directory name is within the allowed limits for the Windows file system.
- Check if the directory name is empty, as an empty string is considered invalid in many operations.
Related Errors
ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND(2)ERROR_INVALID_NAME(123)ERROR_FILENAME_EXCED_RANGE(65)
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_DIRECTORY error mean?
A: It indicates that a directory name provided to an API function is invalid.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that the directory names used in your operations are valid and do not contain any reserved characters or exceed the maximum length allowed by the Windows file system.
Summary
The ERROR_DIRECTORY error code, 267 (0x10B), signifies an invalid directory name. Developers should validate directory names to avoid this issue during file and directory management operations.