Knowledge

ERROR_SXS_PRIVATE_MANIFEST_CROSS_PATH_WITH_REPARSE_POINT - 14020 (0x36C4)

The private manifest probed has crossed a path with an unsupported reparse point.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The error code ERROR_SXS_PRIVATE_MANIFEST_CROSS_PATH_WITH_REPARSE_POINT is a specific Windows error that occurs during the probing of private manifests. This error indicates an issue with reparse points, which are special types of file system objects that can change the way files or directories are accessed.

Error Details

The ERROR_SXS_PRIVATE_MANIFEST_CROSS_PATH_WITH_REPARSE_POINT (14020) is a specific error code related to the Side-by-Side (SXS) manifest probing mechanism. It indicates that during the process of probing for private manifests, the system encountered a path that included an unsupported reparse point.

Common Causes

This error typically occurs due to one or more of the following reasons:

  • The presence of a reparse point on a path where it is not expected or supported by the manifest probing mechanism.
  • Incorrect configuration of reparse points, leading to conflicts during manifest probing.
  • Use of unsupported or incompatible reparse point types in the file system hierarchy.

Real-World Context

The SXS framework uses manifests to manage and load assemblies. When a private manifest is being probed, it must follow certain rules regarding paths and file system objects. Reparse points can interfere with this process if they are not handled correctly by the probing mechanism.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the specific context in which it occurs. While it may indicate a problem that needs to be addressed, it does not necessarily imply severe system instability or data corruption. However, failure to resolve such an issue could prevent certain applications from loading correctly or executing their intended functionality.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose this error, consider the following steps:

  1. Review Operation Context: Examine the context in which the manifest probing operation is being performed. Ensure that all paths and file system objects are correctly configured.
  2. Validate Parameters: Verify that any parameters passed to the manifest probing function are correct and do not include unsupported reparse points.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Check that the object types involved (files, directories) are consistent with expectations and do not contain unexpected reparse points.
  4. Verify Input Data: Ensure that all input data is valid and does not contain any corrupted or malformed entries related to reparse points.

How to Resolve

To resolve this error, take the following actions:

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Adjust any parameters that may be causing the issue, ensuring they do not include unsupported reparse points.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: Modify the operation context if necessary, ensuring it aligns with the expected behavior of manifest probing mechanisms.
  3. Restore Data: If data corruption is suspected, restore or correct the affected files and directories to ensure compatibility with the SXS framework.
  4. Retry Operation with Valid Inputs: Attempt to re-run the manifest probing operation using valid inputs that do not include unsupported reparse points.

Developer Notes

Developers should be aware of the potential for reparse point conflicts when working with private manifests and the SXS framework. Ensuring that all paths and file system objects are correctly configured can help prevent this error from occurring.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_SXS_REPARSE_POINT_NOT_SUPPORTED (0x80131526)
  • ERROR_SXS_MANIFEST_PROBING_FAILED (0x80131527)

FAQ

Q: What does the error code 14020 mean?

A: The error code 14020, ERROR_SXS_PRIVATE_MANIFEST_CROSS_PATH_WITH_REPARSE_POINT, indicates that a private manifest probing operation encountered an unsupported reparse point.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: To prevent this error, ensure that all paths and file system objects used in manifest probing operations are correctly configured and do not include unsupported reparse points.

Summary

The ERROR_SXS_PRIVATE_MANIFEST_CROSS_PATH_WITH_REPARSE_POINT (14020) is a specific Windows error related to the SXS framework's private manifest probing mechanism. It indicates an issue with reparse points on paths where they are not expected or supported. By understanding its causes and following appropriate diagnostic and resolution steps, developers can address this error effectively.