ERROR_SXS_INVALID_ASSEMBLY_IDENTITY_ATTRIBUTE_NAME - 14080 (0x3700)
The supplied assembly identity has one or more attribute names that contain characters not permitted in XML names.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The error code ERROR_SXS_INVALID_ASSEMBLY_IDENTITY_ATTRIBUTE_NAME indicates that the assembly identity provided contains attribute names with characters not allowed in XML names. This typically occurs when attempting to use an invalid name for a manifest or assembly within the Windows Side-by-Side (SxS) runtime environment.
Error Details
The error is specific to the SxS framework, which manages side-by-side assemblies and manifests on Windows systems. The SxS framework relies on XML-based metadata to manage these assemblies, and the XML standard has strict rules for valid attribute names. Any name that does not conform to these rules will result in this error.
Usage Context
This error is encountered when an application or service attempts to load a manifest file or assembly with improperly named attributes. The SxS framework performs validation on the metadata and fails if it detects invalid characters in the attribute names.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should ensure that all XML-based metadata, such as manifest files, adheres strictly to the XML specification when working with the SxS runtime environment. This includes using valid character sets for attribute names and ensuring compliance with XML naming conventions.
Related Errors
ERROR_SXS_FILE_HASH_MISMATCH(14069): Indicates a mismatch in file hashes.ERROR_SXS_MANIFEST_IDENTITY_NOT_TRUSTED(14078): Indicates that the manifest identity is not trusted.
FAQ
Q: What causes this error?
A: This error occurs when attribute names in XML-based metadata do not conform to XML naming conventions. Ensure all attribute names are valid according to the XML standard.
Q: How can I resolve it?
A: Review and correct any invalid characters or non-compliant attribute names in your manifest files or assembly metadata.
Summary
The ERROR_SXS_INVALID_ASSEMBLY_IDENTITY_ATTRIBUTE_NAME error is a specific issue related to the SxS framework's validation of XML-based metadata. Developers must ensure that all metadata adheres strictly to XML naming conventions to avoid this error.