ERROR_SXS_WRONG_SECTION_TYPE - 14009 (0x36B9)
The type requested activation context section does not match the query API used.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Background
The ERROR_SXS_WRONG_SECTION_TYPE error, with the numeric code 14009 and hex code 0x36B9, is a specific error related to the Side-by-Side (SXS) assembly loader in Windows. This error indicates that an attempt was made to activate an application or component using an activation context section type that does not match the query API used.
Error Details
The SXS assembly loader manages side-by-side assemblies and their dependencies, ensuring that applications can run with specific versions of components even if those components are updated. Activation contexts provide a way to manage the environment in which an application runs, including the version of each component it uses.
When an activation context is queried or created using a particular API, the type of section requested must match the expected type for that operation. For example, if an application attempts to query for a manifest section but the API used expects a policy section, this error will be generated.
Common Causes
- Incorrect Activation Context Section Type: The activation context section type requested does not align with the expected type based on the API used.
- Unsupported Operation: The operation being performed is not supported by the current version of the SXS assembly loader or the specific activation context in use.
Real-World Context
This error can occur when an application attempts to load a component using an incorrect activation context section. For instance, if an application tries to query for a manifest section but the API used expects a policy section, this mismatch will result in the ERROR_SXS_WRONG_SECTION_TYPE being returned.
Is This Error Critical?
The criticality of this error depends on the specific operation and its impact on the application. In most cases, it is not a critical issue that would prevent an application from running but may indicate a misconfiguration or incorrect usage context.
How to Diagnose
To diagnose this error, developers should review the following aspects:
- Operation Context: Ensure that the operation being performed aligns with the expected activation context section type. For example, if querying for a manifest, use APIs specifically designed for manifest queries.
- Parameter Validation: Verify that all parameters passed to the API are correct and match the expected types.
- Activation Context Configuration: Confirm that the activation context is properly configured and matches the requirements of the application or component being loaded.
How to Resolve
To resolve this error, developers should take the following steps:
- Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that the parameters passed to the API match the expected types for the operation being performed.
- Adjust Operation Context: If necessary, adjust the activation context configuration to ensure it matches the requirements of the application or component.
- Retry Operation with Valid Inputs: Attempt to perform the operation again using valid inputs and a correctly configured activation context.
Developer Notes
Developers should be aware that the SXS assembly loader is highly dependent on correct usage of APIs and parameters. Ensuring that the activation context section type matches the expected API can prevent this error from occurring.
Related Errors
ERROR_SXS_SECTION_NOT_FOUND(14002, 0x36B5): Indicates that a required section was not found in the activation context.ERROR_SXS_CANT_GEN_ACTCTX(14007, 0x36B1): Occurs when an attempt is made to create an activation context with invalid parameters.
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_SXS_WRONG_SECTION_TYPE error mean?
A: This error indicates that the requested activation context section type does not match the query API used, leading to a mismatch in the SXS assembly loader's operation.
Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?
A: Ensure that the parameters passed to the API match the expected types for the operation being performed and that the activation context is correctly configured.
Summary
The ERROR_SXS_WRONG_SECTION_TYPE error, with code 14009 (0x36B9), occurs when an attempt is made to activate a component using an incorrect activation context section type. This error can be diagnosed by reviewing the operation context and ensuring that parameters are correctly configured. Proper usage of APIs and correct configuration of activation contexts can prevent this issue from arising.