ERROR_INVALID_TOKEN - 315 (0x13B)

Technical Background

The ERROR_INVALID_TOKEN error code is a specific error returned by the Windows API when an operation fails due to an invalid token. Tokens are used in security contexts for authentication and authorization purposes, and this error indicates that the provided or expected token does not meet the required criteria.

Error Details

• Error Name: ERROR_INVALID_TOKEN
• Numeric Code: 315 (0x13B)
• Short Description: The token representing the data is invalid.

This error typically occurs when a function expects a valid security token but receives one that does not conform to the expected format or content. Tokens can be of various types, such as access tokens, impersonation tokens, or primary tokens, each serving different purposes in the Windows security model.

Common Causes

• Invalid Parameter Values: The provided token is not a valid security token type for the operation being performed.
• Incorrect Object Type: The object expected to be a token is not recognized as such by the API.
• Exceeding Limits: There might be limitations on the number or types of tokens that can be used in certain contexts, and these limits have been exceeded.

Real-World Context

This error often arises when attempting to perform operations that require specific security context information. For example, when a process attempts to impersonate another user or when accessing resources protected by Windows security mechanisms.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the operation being performed and the context in which it occurs. In general, if an application encounters this error, it should handle it gracefully and provide appropriate feedback to the user or system administrator.

How to Diagnose

• Review Operation Context: Ensure that the operation is being performed within a valid security context.
• Validate Parameters: Verify that all parameters passed to functions are correct and conform to expected types and formats.
• Confirm Object Types: Confirm that the objects provided as tokens are of the correct type and format.

How to Resolve

• Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that all parameters, including tokens, are correctly specified according to the API documentation.
• Adjust Operation Context: If necessary, adjust the security context or the operation being performed to ensure compatibility with the expected token types.
• Restore Data: If data corruption is suspected, restore from a backup if available.

Developer Notes

Developers should be aware that tokens can vary in complexity and type. Understanding the specific requirements of each API function is crucial for avoiding this error. Additionally, thorough testing under various security contexts can help identify potential issues early in development.

Related Errors

• ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER: Indicates an invalid parameter was passed to a function.
• ERROR_ACCESS_DENIED: Occurs when access to a resource is denied due to insufficient permissions.
• ERROR_BAD_TOKEN_TYPE: Indicates that the token type provided does not match the expected type for the operation.

FAQ

Q: What causes ERROR_INVALID_TOKEN?

A: This error typically occurs when an invalid security token is passed to a function, such as incorrect parameter values or mismatched object types.

Q: How can I prevent this error in my application?

A: Ensure that all tokens used are valid and of the correct type for the operation being performed. Validate parameters before calling API functions.

Summary

The ERROR_INVALID_TOKEN error code is a specific indication that an invalid security token has been provided to a Windows API function. Understanding its context, causes, and resolution strategies can help developers handle this issue effectively in their applications.