ERROR_SXS_POLICY_PARSE_ERROR - 14029 (0x36CD)
The policy manifest contains one or more syntax errors.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_SXS_POLICY_PARSE_ERROR error code indicates that a policy manifest file contains one or more syntax errors. This typically occurs during the parsing of the manifest, which is used to define application compatibility and other runtime policies.
Error Details
This error is specific to the Side-by-Side (SxS) assembly loader in Windows, which uses manifests to manage assemblies and their dependencies. Manifests are XML files that describe the properties of an assembly, such as its version, dependencies, and security settings. When a manifest file is loaded, it undergoes parsing to ensure its contents adhere to the expected structure.
Usage Context
This error can occur in various scenarios where manifests are involved, such as when deploying or running applications that rely on SxS assemblies. It may also appear during system updates or installations of software packages that include manifest files.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as an indication that the manifest file being processed contains invalid syntax. This could be due to incorrect XML formatting, missing tags, or other structural issues within the manifest. Developers are advised to validate their manifests against the schema provided by Microsoft and ensure they adhere to the correct structure.
Related Errors
ERROR_SXS_FILE_HASH_MISMATCH(14028): Indicates a mismatch between the expected and actual hash of an assembly.ERROR_SXS_MANIFEST_IDENTITY_NOT_FOUND(14030): Suggests that a required identity element is missing from the manifest.
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_SXS_POLICY_PARSE_ERROR mean?
A: It indicates that there are syntax errors in the policy manifest file being processed.
Q: How can I resolve this error?
A: Validate and correct any syntax issues in your manifest files. Ensure they adhere to the correct XML schema provided by Microsoft.
Summary
The ERROR_SXS_POLICY_PARSE_ERROR is a specific error code indicating that a policy manifest file contains one or more syntax errors during parsing. Developers should validate their manifests against the appropriate schemas and ensure proper XML structure to avoid this issue.