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Win32 Error 222 (ERROR_BAD_FILE_TYPE): Meaning & Checks

222 is a file or path result. Microsoft’s system-code table describes this value as: “The file type being saved or retrieved has been blocked.”

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 file type being saved or retrieved has been blocked.”

ERROR_BAD_FILE_TYPE 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.

Identity and provenance of 222
Code222
Hex form0xDE
SymbolERROR_BAD_FILE_TYPE
Windows familyWin32 system codes
Source levelMicrosoft code and symbol entry

Safe next steps

  1. For 222 (ERROR_BAD_FILE_TYPE), copy the exact file or path from the application message. Check whether it exists at that location and whether the drive is available.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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Official reference and verification

Source type: Microsoft code and symbol entry. Checked against the source set on Nov 2, 2026.

Open the source reference ↗

The reference gives the meaning of this identifier. It does not inspect your PC or guarantee that one repair will work.