Knowledge

ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID - 674 (0x2A2)

Driver %2 returned invalid ID for a child device (%3).

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID error is a specific Windows error code that indicates a problem with the Plug and Play (PnP) subsystem. This error occurs when a driver returns an invalid ID for a child device, which can lead to issues in device recognition or operation.

Error Details

  • Error Name: ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID
  • Numeric Code: 674
  • Hex Code: 0x2A2
  • Short Description: Driver returned an invalid ID for a child device.

This error typically arises when the driver fails to provide a valid identifier for a device, which can disrupt the proper functioning of the PnP system and prevent the device from being recognized or operating correctly.

Common Causes

The common causes for this error include:

  • Invalid Parameter Values: The driver may have received incorrect parameters during initialization or operation.
  • Incorrect Object Type: The driver might be attempting to manipulate an object of a type it is not designed to handle, leading to invalid IDs being returned.
  • Unsupported Operations: The device or driver may not support the operations required by the PnP system, causing errors in ID generation.

Real-World Context

In practical scenarios, this error can manifest when:

  • A driver fails to initialize a child device correctly due to misconfigured parameters.
  • An incorrect object type is passed to the driver, leading to invalid IDs being generated.
  • The driver or device does not support certain operations required by the PnP system, resulting in errors.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the specific context. If a child device is crucial for the operation of a system component, then this error could be highly disruptive. However, if the device is optional or not essential to the overall functionality, the impact may be minimal.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID, follow these steps:

  1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that all parameters passed to the driver are correct and valid.
  2. Validate Parameters: Check for any invalid or incorrect parameter values that might cause the error.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Verify that the object types being manipulated by the driver match the expected types.
  4. Verify Input Data: Ensure that all input data is correctly formatted and within acceptable ranges.
  5. Check Limits or Constraints: Confirm that the operation does not exceed any system limits or constraints.

How to Resolve

To resolve ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID, consider these practical steps:

  • Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that parameters are used correctly according to the driver's specifications.
  • Adjust Operation Context: Modify the context in which the operation is performed to ensure it aligns with supported operations.
  • Restore Data: If data corruption is suspected, restore the device or driver to a known good state.
  • Retry Operation: Attempt to perform the operation again with valid inputs and parameters.

Developer Notes

Developers should ensure that drivers are robust and handle all possible input scenarios correctly. Proper validation of parameters and object types can prevent such errors from occurring.

Related Errors

FAQ

Q: What does ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID mean?

A: This error indicates that a driver returned an invalid ID for a child device, disrupting the PnP system's ability to recognize or operate the device.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure that drivers are correctly configured and handle all possible input scenarios. Validate parameters and object types to avoid errors.

Summary

ERROR_PNP_INVALID_ID is a specific Windows error code indicating an issue with driver behavior in the PnP subsystem. By understanding its causes, diagnosing it effectively, and taking appropriate steps to resolve it, developers can ensure smoother device operation and system stability.