ERROR_DS_REFERRAL - 8235 (0x202B)
A referral was returned from the server.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_DS_REFERRAL error indicates that a referral was returned from the server during an Active Directory or LDAP operation. This typically means that the requested resource is located on another server, and the client should follow the referral to access it.
Error Details
This error code is specific to directory services operations within the Windows environment. It signifies that the server encountered a situation where the requested object or service is not directly available but requires a referral to another server for further processing.
Usage Context
The ERROR_DS_REFERRAL can be encountered in various scenarios, such as when attempting to access an object or service that is hosted on a different domain controller. It is commonly used in LDAP queries and directory services operations where the client needs to follow referrals to locate resources.
Developer Interpretation
When this error is returned, it indicates that the operation was successful but requires additional steps from the client application. The client should handle the referral by following the provided information to access the desired resource or service on another server.
Related Errors
ERROR_DS_NO_SUCH_OBJECT(1930): Indicates that the object being referred to does not exist.ERROR_DS_OBJECTleanor(2085): Indicates a general directory services error, which may include referrals but is broader in scope.
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_DS_REFERRAL mean?
A: It means that the requested resource or object is located on another server and requires following a referral to access it.
Q: How should I handle this error in my application?
A: Follow the referral information provided by the server to locate the desired resource or service on another server. This may involve modifying your query or operation context accordingly.
Summary
The ERROR_DS_REFERRAL is a specific error code used in directory services operations, indicating that a referral was returned from the server. It requires the client application to follow the referral for further processing and accessing the desired resource or service.