| Previous | Next |
| ERROR_DS_OBJ_TOO_LARGE | ERROR_DS_MASTERDSA_REQUIRED |
ERROR_DS_BAD_INSTANCE_TYPE
instanceType describes how an object participates in an NC replica
The instanceType attribute is not ordinary application data. Active Directory uses instance state to identify roles such as an NC head and to describe how an object is instantiated in a replica. An invalid combination can make the object structurally inconsistent even when its DN and object class look plausible.
This is especially relevant around partition roots, subordinate references, restored data, or low-level directory import code. Changing a visible naming attribute or retrying the LDAP request does not repair instance metadata. The surrounding NC and replication state have to agree with the flags represented on the object.
What to inspect
- Identify the object DN and determine whether it is expected to be an NC head, a subordinate reference, or an ordinary object.
- Compare the object and partition state on replication partners; a one-DC-only discrepancy points toward replication or database consistency rather than schema syntax.
- Avoid directly editing system-maintained instance flags with generic LDAP tools. Preserve Directory Service events and replication evidence first.
References
Looking for a different code? Search another status or error code.