1017 is a file or path result. Microsoft’s system-code table describes this value as: “The system has attempted to load or restore a file into the registry, but the specified file is not in a registry file format.”
Code reference and safe checks
Read the exact screen and operation before selecting a repair. This page does not run commands or collect files, keys or logs.
What this value means
Microsoft’s system-code table describes this value as: “The system has attempted to load or restore a file into the registry, but the specified file is not in a registry file format.”
ERROR_NOT_REGISTRY_FILE is a Win32 system result, usually returned to an application or API caller. It is not a Windows blue-screen code or a diagnosis of the whole PC.
| Code | 1017 |
|---|---|
| Hex form | 0x3F9 |
| Symbol | ERROR_NOT_REGISTRY_FILE |
| Windows family | Win32 system codes |
| Source level | Microsoft code and symbol entry |
Safe next steps
- For 1017 (ERROR_NOT_REGISTRY_FILE), copy the exact file or path from the application message. Check whether it exists at that location and whether the drive is available.
- If the file belongs to an application, use that publisher’s repair or reinstall instructions for the correct version. Avoid downloading a same-named file from an unrelated site.
- Repeat only the original action. If the same code returns, give the app vendor the path, operation, and timestamp.
After one step, repeat the original operation and record whether this same code returns. A different code needs a fresh interpretation.
What this code cannot prove
The source establishes the identifier and reference meaning. It does not establish the cause on your specific PC.
If the result differs from the documented message or a repair could remove data, stop and use the official source or vendor support.
Official reference and verification
Source type: Microsoft code and symbol entry. Checked against the source set on Nov 2, 2026.
The reference gives the meaning of this identifier. It does not inspect your PC or guarantee that one repair will work.