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ERROR_BADDB
The configuration registry database is corrupt
ERROR_BADDB is a broad configuration-registry corruption status. It predates several more specific registry error codes and does not by itself identify a particular key, value, or hive file. The registry remains a hierarchical database, so the failing call and hive context are essential for narrowing the fault.
Capture the API that returned the status and the root key or hive involved. If the failure occurs while the Service Control Manager reads service configuration, inspect the Services branch and backing SYSTEM hive; if it occurs during explicit hive load or restore, preserve the candidate file and recovery data. Do not infer that deleting one application key will repair a database-level fault. A successful read of unrelated keys also does not disprove localized hive damage, because different operations may touch different cells or backing files.
What to inspect
- Record the exact registry or service API and root handle that failed.
- Determine which hive backs the failing branch.
- Preserve the hive and compare behavior with an offline or known-good copy.
References
- Microsoft: Structure of the Registry
- Microsoft: Windows registry information for advanced users
- Microsoft: Database of Installed Services
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