ERROR_XML_PARSE_ERROR - 1465 (0x5B9)

Windows was unable to parse the requested XML data.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The ERROR_XML_PARSE_ERROR is a specific error code indicating that Windows encountered an issue while attempting to parse XML data. This error typically arises when the input provided does not conform to valid XML syntax or structure, leading to parsing failure.

Error Details

  • Error Name: ERROR_XML_PARSE_ERROR
  • Numeric Code: 1465 (0x5B9)
  • Short Description: Windows was unable to parse the requested XML data.

This error suggests that there is a problem with the XML content being processed, such as incorrect syntax or unsupported characters. The exact nature of the issue can vary depending on the context in which the XML parsing operation is performed.

Common Causes

  • Invalid Parameter Values: The input XML data may contain invalid characters, tags, or attributes that violate XML standards.
  • Incorrect Object Type: The operation might be applied to a non-XML file or an object type not compatible with XML processing.
  • Exceeding Limits: There could be limitations on the size or complexity of the XML document being parsed.

Real-World Context

This error can occur in various scenarios, such as when reading configuration files, validating user input, or integrating third-party data sources that use XML formats. It is important to ensure that all XML inputs are properly formatted and validated before attempting to parse them.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. If the parsing operation is part of a critical system process, such as configuration loading or data synchronization, then the issue should be addressed promptly to avoid potential service disruptions.

How to Diagnose

  1. Review Operation Context: Determine where and why the XML parsing operation was initiated.
  2. Validate Parameters: Check the input XML data for any obvious syntax errors or unsupported characters.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Ensure that the object being parsed is indeed an XML file or a string containing valid XML content.

How to Resolve

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Verify and correct any invalid parameters or input values.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: If the operation context is incorrect, adjust it to ensure compatibility with XML parsing requirements.
  3. Restore Data: If data corruption is suspected, restore from a known good backup.

Developer Notes

Developers should implement robust validation mechanisms for XML inputs and handle this error gracefully in their applications. This can include using try-catch blocks or custom error handling logic to manage the failure of XML parsing operations.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_BAD_FORMAT: Occurs when a file is not recognized as being in a format that is recognizable by the system.
  • ERROR_INVALID_DATA: Indicates that data passed to a function was invalid, such as an incorrect parameter value or type.

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_XML_PARSE_ERROR indicate?

A: It indicates that Windows failed to parse XML data due to syntax errors or unsupported characters in the input.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure that all XML inputs are properly formatted and validated before parsing. Use validation libraries or tools to check for common issues.

Summary

The ERROR_XML_PARSE_ERROR is a specific error code indicating an issue with XML data parsing in Windows. It highlights the need for careful input validation and robust error handling in applications that process XML content. By understanding the causes and implementing appropriate measures, developers can mitigate this error and ensure smooth operation of their systems.