ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE - 1062 (0x426)
The service has not been started.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Background
The ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE error code, represented by the numeric value 1062 or its hexadecimal equivalent 0x426, indicates that a requested service is not currently active. This error typically arises when an application attempts to interact with a service that has not been started.
Error Details
The ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE error signifies that the service in question is either not running or has been stopped by the system administrator, user, or through some other means. This can occur due to various reasons such as incorrect configuration, insufficient permissions, or resource limitations.
Common Causes
- Invalid Parameter Values: Incorrect parameters passed during a service-related operation.
- Incorrect Object Type: Attempting an operation on a non-service object.
- Exceeding Limits: Reaching the maximum number of services that can be active simultaneously.
- Unsupported Operations: Performing operations that are not supported by the current state of the service or system.
Real-World Context
This error is commonly encountered in scenarios where an application requires a specific service to perform its functions. For example, a database management tool might fail if the SQL Server service is not active when attempting to connect to the server.
Is This Error Critical?
The criticality of this error depends on the context and the services involved. If the service in question is essential for the operation of an application or system, then the error can be considered critical. However, if the service is optional, it may not impact the overall functionality significantly.
How to Diagnose
To diagnose the ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE issue, follow these steps:
- Review Operation Context: Ensure that the operation context is correct and appropriate for the service in question.
- Validate Parameters: Check if all parameters passed to the service-related function are valid and correctly formatted.
- Confirm Object Types: Verify that the object types being interacted with are services, as attempting operations on non-service objects can result in this error.
- Verify Input Data: Ensure that any input data required by the service is correct and complete.
- Check Limits or Constraints: Confirm that no system limits have been exceeded, such as the maximum number of active services.
How to Resolve
To resolve the ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE issue, consider these practical steps:
- Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure all parameters are correctly specified and passed to the service-related functions.
- Adjust Operation Context: If the operation context is incorrect, adjust it to match the requirements of the service.
- Restore Data: If data corruption or loss has occurred, restore the necessary files or registry entries related to the service.
- Retry Operation with Valid Inputs: Attempt the operation again using valid inputs and ensure that all prerequisites are met.
Developer Notes
Developers should be aware of the potential causes of this error and implement appropriate checks and validation logic in their applications. Additionally, providing clear documentation on expected service states can help users understand when to expect this error and how to handle it appropriately.
Related Errors
- ERROR_SERVICE_DOES_NOT_EXIST: The requested service does not exist or has been uninstalled from the system.
- ERROR_SERVICE_START_NAME_INVALID: The specified start name for the service is invalid.
FAQ
Q: What causes ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE?
A: This error can occur due to various reasons, including incorrect parameters, unsupported operations, or the service being stopped.
Q: How do I determine if a service is active?
A: You can use tools like sc query in Command Prompt to check the status of services on your system.
Q: Can this error be critical?
A: The criticality depends on the importance of the service. Essential services may cause significant issues, while optional ones might not impact functionality as much.
Summary
The ERROR_SERVICE_NOT_ACTIVE (1062) error indicates that a requested service is not active. This can result from various factors such as incorrect parameters or unsupported operations. By understanding the context and causes of this error, developers can implement appropriate checks and handle it effectively in their applications.