ERROR_DS_NO_ATTRIBUTE_OR_VALUE - 8202 (0x200A)

The specified directory service attribute or value does not exist.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Meaning

The error code ERROR_DS_NO_ATTRIBUTE_OR_VALUE (8202, 0x200A) indicates that a specified directory service attribute or value does not exist. This error is commonly encountered in scenarios where the system attempts to access an attribute or value within a directory service but finds it non-existent.

Error Details

This error typically arises when:

  • An attempt is made to retrieve, modify, or delete an attribute that does not exist in the directory service schema.
  • A search operation specifies a filter for attributes or values that are not present in the directory entries being queried.
  • The application or script incorrectly references non-existent attributes or values during operations on Active Directory objects.

Usage Context

This error is relevant to applications and scripts that interact with Active Directory services, LDAP directories, or other directory service protocols. It can occur when performing read, write, or search operations within the context of these services.

Developer Interpretation

When encountering ERROR_DS_NO_ATTRIBUTE_OR_VALUE, developers should ensure that all attribute names and values used in their operations are correctly spelled and exist within the schema of the directory service being accessed. Developers must also validate input parameters to avoid referencing non-existent attributes or values, which can lead to this error.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_DS_ATTRIBUTE_TYPE_UNDEFINED (1970, 0x7B2): Indicates that an attribute type specified in a request does not exist in the schema of the directory service.
  • ERROR_DS_OBJECT_CLASS_NOT_DEFINED (1835, 0x74F): Occurs when an object class referenced in a request is undefined in the directory service schema.

FAQ

Q: What causes this error?

A: This error occurs when attempting to access attributes or values that do not exist within the directory service schema.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure all attribute names and values used in your operations are correctly spelled and defined in the directory service schema. Validate input parameters to avoid referencing non-existent attributes or values.

Summary

ERROR_DS_NO_ATTRIBUTE_OR_VALUE (8202, 0x200A) is a specific error code indicating that a specified attribute or value does not exist within the directory service being accessed. Developers should validate their input parameters and ensure they are correctly referencing attributes defined in the schema to avoid this error.