ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED - 1110 (0x456)
The media in the drive may have changed.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED error code indicates that the media in a drive has been changed since the last operation. This can occur when a CD, DVD, or USB drive is inserted into or removed from a drive while an application or system process was accessing it.
Error Details
This error typically arises during file operations such as reading or writing to a medium that has been physically altered. The operating system may not be aware of the change until it attempts to access the media again, leading to this error being returned.
Usage Context
The ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED is commonly encountered in scenarios where applications are handling removable media. For example, if an application is reading a CD or DVD and the disc is removed without ejecting properly, the system may return this error upon attempting to continue operations on the now changed medium.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED as an indication that the state of the media has been altered. This can affect ongoing operations such as reading or writing data. Developers are advised to handle this error by either retrying the operation after ensuring the media is stable, or by informing the user and prompting them to eject the medium properly.
Related Errors
ERROR_MEDIA_NOT_PRESENT(21)ERROR_NO_MEDIA_IN_DRIVE(225)
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED mean?
A: It indicates that the media in a drive has been changed since the last operation.
Q: How can I handle this error in my application?
A: Retry the operation or inform the user to ensure proper handling of removable media.
Summary
ERROR_MEDIA_CHANGED is a generic error code indicating a change in the state of removable media. Developers should be prepared to handle such errors by ensuring that operations are retried after confirming the stability of the medium.