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STATUS_DS_CANT_START
The directory service cannot start
This is a domain-controller service startup failure, not an ordinary LDAP operation result. The directory database, logs, SYSVOL dependencies, credentials, storage, or configuration may prevent NTDS from becoming available.
The visible status is only the wrapper. The important evidence is the accompanying Directory Service event, underlying NTSTATUS or Win32 status, and whether the machine must boot into recovery mode.
What to inspect
- Preserve the exact startup event text and embedded status code.
- Check storage, NTDS database/log paths, SYSVOL and recent restore or snapshot actions.
- Use Directory Services Restore Mode only as part of a planned recovery path.
References
- Microsoft: AD DS overview
- Microsoft: AD forest recovery guide
- Microsoft Open Specifications: NTSTATUS values
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