ERROR_DS_CANT_RETRIEVE_DN - 8405 (0x20D5)

Technical Meaning

The error code ERROR_DS_CANT_RETRIEVE_DN indicates that the system was unable to read or retrieve a distinguished name attribute. This typically occurs in scenarios involving directory services, such as Active Directory.

Error Details

This error is specific to operations within the domain of Active Directory and related directory service protocols (e.g., LDAP). The distinguished name (DN) is a unique identifier for objects stored in an LDAP directory. When this error is encountered, it suggests that there might be issues with accessing or reading the DN attribute.

Usage Context

This error can occur during various operations within Active Directory, such as:

• Searching for objects by their distinguished name.
• Retrieving object properties through LDAP queries.
• Performing administrative tasks that require access to an object's distinguished name.

Developer Interpretation

When encountering ERROR_DS_CANT_RETRIEVE_DN, developers should consider the following aspects of their operation context:

• Ensure that the correct distinguished name is being used in the query or operation.
• Verify network connectivity and authentication status, as these can affect directory service operations.
• Check for any temporary issues with the directory server or client configuration.

Related Errors

• ERROR_DS_DN_SYNTAX (1972): Indicates a syntax error in the distinguished name.
• ERROR_DS_OBJECT_NOT_FOUND (3246): The object specified by the distinguished name does not exist.
• ERROR_DS_NO_ATTRIBUTE_OR_VALUE (1850): No attribute or value is found for the specified distinguished name.

FAQ

Q: What causes ERROR_DS_CANT_RETRIEVE_DN?

A: This error can be caused by various issues, such as incorrect distinguished name syntax, network connectivity problems, or temporary server issues.

Q: How can I troubleshoot this issue?

A: Review the operation context and verify that the correct distinguished name is being used. Ensure proper authentication and network connectivity. Check for any known issues with the directory service.

Summary

ERROR_DS_CANT_RETRIEVE_DN (8405) is a specific error code indicating an issue in retrieving or reading a distinguished name attribute within Active Directory operations. Developers should focus on verifying operation context and ensuring proper network and authentication status when encountering this error.