ERROR_SXS_XML_E_UNEXPECTED_STANDALONE - 14071 (0x36F7)
Manifest Parse Error : The standalone attribute cannot be used in external entities.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
This error code indicates a manifest parse error. Specifically, it suggests that the standalone attribute was incorrectly used in an external entity within an XML document.
Error Details
The ERROR_SXS_XML_E_UNEXPECTED_STANDALONE error is related to the Windows Side-by-Side (SxS) assembly manifest parsing process. It occurs when the parser encounters a situation where the standalone attribute, which is used in internal DTD subsets or external entities, is incorrectly applied outside of its valid context.
Usage Context
This error typically arises during the loading and execution of SxS assemblies. The Windows loader attempts to parse manifest files associated with these assemblies but encounters an invalid use of the standalone attribute, leading to a failure in parsing the XML document.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as indicating that there is a problem with the structure or content of the manifest file being processed. The issue lies specifically with the incorrect usage of the standalone attribute within external entities, which violates the rules defined by the XML specification and the SxS assembly manifest schema.
Related Errors
- ERROR_SXS_XML_E_MISSING_SCHEMA (14069): Indicates that a required schema is missing from the manifest file.
- ERROR_SXS_XML_E_UNEXPECTED_STANDALONE_ROOT (14073): Suggests an unexpected standalone root element in the XML document.
FAQ
Q: What does this error mean?
A: This error indicates that there is a problem with the manifest file, specifically related to the incorrect usage of the standalone attribute within external entities.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Review and correct the XML structure in your manifest files. Ensure that the standalone attribute is used only where it is valid according to the XML specification and SxS assembly manifest schema.
Summary
The ERROR_SXS_XML_E_UNEXPECTED_STANDALONE error (14071) is a specific manifestation of an XML parsing issue during the loading of Windows Side-by-Side assemblies. It highlights a problem with the standalone attribute's usage in external entities, which must be corrected to ensure proper manifest processing.