Knowledge

ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE - 8513 (0x2141)

The specified group type is invalid.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Overview

The ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE error (8513, 0x2141) indicates that an operation attempted to use a group type that is not supported or recognized by the system. This error typically arises in scenarios involving Active Directory and related services.

Technical Background

This error code is part of the DSAPI (Directory Services Application Programming Interface), which provides access to directory services such as Active Directory. The ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE specifically pertains to operations that involve group management within an Active Directory environment.

Error Details

The error message, 'The specified group type is invalid,' suggests that a particular operation was attempted with a group type identifier that does not match any valid types recognized by the system. This can occur in various contexts, such as when creating or modifying groups through administrative tools or scripts.

Common Causes

  • Invalid Group Type Identifier: The operation attempted to use a group type ID that is not supported by Active Directory.
  • Incorrect Object Type: The operation was intended for an object type other than a group (e.g., user, computer).
  • Unsupported Operation Context: The operation context does not support the specified group type.

Real-World Context

This error can occur in scenarios such as:

  • Attempting to create or modify a group using incorrect parameters.
  • Using deprecated or unsupported group types in scripts or administrative tools.
  • Migrating data between different directory service implementations that have varying group type definitions.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the context. While it does not typically cause system instability, it can prevent certain operations from completing successfully and may require corrective action to resolve.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE, follow these steps:

  1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that the operation is being performed in an appropriate context (e.g., Active Directory environment).
  2. Validate Parameters: Check the group type identifier used and ensure it matches a valid type.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Verify that the object types involved are correct and consistent with the intended operation.
  4. Verify Input Data: Ensure all input data, including group names and descriptions, are correctly formatted and valid.
  5. Check Limits or Constraints: Confirm that there are no system limits or constraints preventing the operation from completing successfully.

How to Resolve

To resolve ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE, consider these steps:

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure all parameters used in the operation are correct and valid.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: If necessary, adjust the context of the operation to ensure it is compatible with the group type being used.
  3. Restore Data: If data corruption or invalid state is suspected, restore from a known good backup if available.
  4. Retry Operation: Attempt the operation again with valid inputs and correct parameters.

Developer Notes

Developers should be aware of the supported group types in Active Directory and ensure that any custom scripts or tools they develop are compatible with these definitions. Regularly updating documentation and testing against the latest API specifications can help prevent such errors.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_DS_GROUP_EXISTS: Indicates a group already exists with the same name.
  • ERROR_DS_NO_SUCH_OBJECT: The specified object does not exist in the directory service.

FAQ

Q: What causes ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE?

A: This error typically occurs when an operation attempts to use a group type that is not supported by Active Directory or when incorrect parameters are used.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure all operations are performed in the correct context and with valid, supported parameters. Regularly update your scripts and tools to align with the latest API specifications.

Summary

ERROR_DS_INVALID_GROUP_TYPE is a specific error indicating that an operation attempted to use an unsupported or invalid group type within Active Directory. By understanding its causes and following diagnostic and resolution steps, developers can effectively manage this issue in their applications.