ERROR_DS_NO_NEST_LOCALGROUP_IN_MIXEDDOMAIN - 8515 (0x2143)
You cannot nest local groups in a mixed domain if the group is security-enabled.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The error code ERROR_DS_NO_NEST_LOCALGROUP_IN_MIXEDDOMAIN with the numeric value 8515 (0x2143) indicates that it is not permissible to nest local groups within a mixed domain if the group in question has been security-enabled. This restriction applies specifically when dealing with Active Directory and Group Policy configurations.
Error Details
In Windows environments, particularly those involving mixed domains where both Windows NT and Windows 2000 or later domain controllers coexist, certain restrictions are enforced to maintain consistency and security. Nesting local groups within a mixed domain can lead to inconsistencies in group membership and access control policies, which is why this operation is disallowed.
Usage Context
This error typically arises when attempting to modify the structure of groups through Group Policy or other administrative tools that interact with Active Directory. It is important to understand that security-enabled local groups are those that have been configured to participate in domain-wide group membership and access control policies, which can complicate nested group structures.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should be aware that this error code signifies a limitation imposed by the Windows operating system when managing group structures within mixed domains. It is crucial to ensure that any operations involving security-enabled local groups are performed in a manner consistent with domain policies and guidelines to avoid encountering this error.
Related Errors
ERROR_DS_GROUP_CONVERSION_ERROR(8361, 0x2091)ERROR_DS_LOCAL_PRINCIPAL_IN_MIXED_DOMAIN(8514, 0x2142)
These errors may also be encountered when dealing with group management in mixed domain environments.
FAQ
Q: What does the error code 8515 mean?
A: The error ERROR_DS_NO_NEST_LOCALGROUP_IN_MIXEDDOMAIN indicates that local groups cannot be nested within a mixed domain if they are security-enabled.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that any operations involving security-enabled local groups are performed in environments where such restrictions do not apply, or adjust the group structure to comply with domain policies.
Summary
The error ERROR_DS_NO_NEST_LOCALGROUP_IN_MIXEDDOMAIN (8515) is a specific restriction enforced by Windows when managing group structures within mixed domains. Developers and administrators should be aware of this limitation and ensure that their operations are consistent with domain policies to avoid encountering this error.