⚠️ 3 verified solutions available for Error 117 — Last updated 2026-03-29
Error 117 📋

How to Fix ERROR_INVALID_CATEGORY (Error 117)

The ERROR_INVALID_CATEGORY error, also known as Error 117, occurs when an application's IOCTL call is incorrect, causing system instability. This error can lead to system crashes, freezes, or malfunctioning applications. It's essential to address this issue to maintain system stability and prevent data loss.

🏷️ Code: 117 📛 ERROR_INVALID_CATEGORY 📅 Updated: 2026-03-29 ⏱️ 3 Solutions
🐞 Auto-Fix Script for Error 117
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📑 Table of Contents
What is Error 117? Common Causes Step-by-Step Solutions Prevention Tips Related Errors

💡 What is Error 117?

In addition to system instability, the ERROR_INVALID_CATEGORY error can also cause data loss or corruption. When the system crashes or freezes, unsaved data may be lost, and corrupted files may become unrecoverable. To prevent data loss, it's essential to address the error promptly and take steps to prevent it from occurring in the future.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • Outdated or corrupted device drivers
  • Incompatible applications
  • System file corruption
📚 Comprehensive Guide

Diagnosing Memory Management and RAM Faults in Windows 10 & 11

An encyclopedia on diagnosing physical RAM defects, virtual memory (paging file) corruption, and resolving MEMORY_MANAGEMENT BSODs.

Read the full guide →

✅ Step-by-Step Solutions

1 Update Device Drivers
  1. Open the Device Manager
  2. Expand the device category
  3. Right-click the device and select Update Driver
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2 Run System File Checker
  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator
  2. Type the command 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter
3 Disable Recently Installed Applications
  1. Open the Control Panel
  2. Click on Programs and Features
  3. Disable or uninstall recently installed applications

🎬 Video Tutorials

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How to fix Error 117 (Invalid Category)
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🛡️ Prevention Tips

  • Regularly update device drivers
  • Install compatible applications
  • Run system file checks regularly
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Last updated: 2026-03-29
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Based on Official Microsoft Documentation
Solutions Tested on Windows 10 & 11
Error codes sourced from Microsoft Win32 SDK. Updated 2026-03-29.
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