Knowledge

WSAEDESTADDRREQ - 10039 (0x2737)

A required address was omitted from an operation on a socket.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The WSAEDESTADDRREQ error code is a specific error that occurs in the Windows Sockets API when an operation on a socket requires a destination address, but one was not provided. This error typically arises during operations such as sending data over a network where the target address is mandatory.

Error Details

  • Error Name: WSAEDESTADDRREQ
  • Numeric Code: 10039 (0x2737)
  • Short Description: A required address was omitted from an operation on a socket.

This error indicates that the application attempted to perform an operation that requires specifying a destination address, but did not provide one. This is often seen in scenarios where sending data over a network connection is expected, and the target address is necessary for the operation to proceed successfully.

Common Causes

  • Invalid Parameter Values: The function call included parameters that were not properly configured or set up to include all required information.
  • Incorrect Object Type: The object being operated on (e.g., a socket) was of an incorrect type, and thus did not support the operation requiring a destination address.
  • Exceeding Limits: There might be limitations in place that prevent certain operations from being performed without a specified destination address.

Real-World Context

In network programming, sending data over a socket requires specifying both the source and destination addresses. If the application attempts to send data without providing the necessary destination address, this error will occur. This is particularly relevant in scenarios where the application needs to communicate with specific endpoints on a network.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. In most cases, this error indicates that the application logic or configuration is incomplete and requires correction. However, if the operation was intended to be performed without specifying a destination address (which is unusual), then this might indicate an issue with the underlying network protocol or system configuration.

How to Diagnose

  1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that all operations involving sockets are correctly configured and that the necessary parameters are provided.
  2. Validate Parameters: Check that the function calls include all required parameters, including destination addresses where applicable.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Verify that the objects being operated on (sockets) are of the correct type to support the intended operation.

How to Resolve

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure that all necessary parameters, including destination addresses, are correctly specified in function calls.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: If the operation is not expected to require a specific destination address, review and adjust the application logic accordingly.
  3. Restore Data: In cases where data might have been corrupted or lost due to incorrect usage, restore the correct configuration.

Developer Notes

Developers should ensure that all network operations involving sockets are properly configured with all required parameters, especially when sending data over a network. This includes specifying destination addresses for send operations and ensuring that socket objects are correctly initialized and used in the intended context.

Related Errors

  • WSAEADDRNOTAVAIL: The requested address is not valid in its context.
  • WSAENETDOWN: A transport software component needed to process the operation failed because the network subsystem was unavailable.

FAQ

Q: What does WSAEDESTADDRREQ mean?

A: This error indicates that a required destination address was omitted from an operation on a socket. Ensure all necessary parameters are provided for operations involving sockets.

Q: How can I prevent this error?

A: Always provide the necessary parameters, including destination addresses when sending data over a network using sockets.

Summary

The WSAEDESTADDRREQ error code is specific to situations where an operation on a socket requires a destination address but one was not provided. This can be caused by invalid parameter values or incorrect object types and should be addressed by ensuring all necessary parameters are correctly specified in function calls.