ERROR_DS_DST_NC_MISMATCH - 8486 (0x2126)
Source and destination for a cross-domain move are not in agreement on the naming contexts in the forest. Either source or destination does not have the latest version of the Partitions container.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
This error, Error_DS_DST_NC_MISMATCH, is a specific return code indicating that the source and destination for a cross-domain move operation in Active Directory do not agree on the naming contexts within the forest. This can occur if either the source or destination does not have the latest version of the Partitions container.
Error Details
The error Error_DS_DST_NC_MISMATCH (8486, 0x2126) is encountered when attempting to perform a cross-domain move operation in an Active Directory forest. The operation requires both source and destination domains to be aware of the latest naming contexts within the forest. If there is a discrepancy between these contexts, the operation will fail with this error.
Usage Context
This error typically arises during administrative tasks involving the movement of objects across different domains within an Active Directory forest. It can also occur when attempting to modify or transfer objects that are part of a naming context that has been updated on one side but not yet synchronized on the other.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as indicating a synchronization issue between the source and destination domains during a cross-domain move operation. The error suggests that either the source or destination domain is out of date with respect to the naming context information, which is critical for successful operations in an Active Directory forest.
Related Errors
Error_DS_SRC_NC_MISMATCH(8485, 0x2125): Indicates a mismatch between the source and the current naming context at the time of operation.Error_DS_DST_NC_CHANGED(8493, 0x2165): Indicates that the destination naming context has changed since the start of the operation.
FAQ
Q: What does Error_DS_DST_NC_MISMATCH mean?
A: This error indicates a mismatch between the source and destination naming contexts during a cross-domain move in Active Directory, suggesting an out-of-date or unsynchronized state.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that both the source and destination domains are up to date with the latest naming context information. Synchronize the Partitions container on both sides before performing the operation again.
Summary
The Error_DS_DST_NC_MISMATCH error is a specific return code indicating a mismatch in naming contexts during cross-domain moves in Active Directory. Developers should ensure that all domains involved are synchronized with the latest naming context information to avoid this issue.