Run as Administrator: Right-click the application → 'Run as administrator'
👇 See all 2 solutions belowWhat is Error 1361?
Windows System Error Code 1361, known as ERROR_BAD_DESCRIPTOR_FORMAT, is a Security & Privileges error that occurs during security, authentication, and user privileges. The error indicates that: A security descriptor is not in the right format (absolute or self-relative). When this error is encountered, the Windows operating system was unable to complete the requested operation within the security services subsystem. The error code 1361 is returned by the GetLastError() function and provides developers with a specific identifier to diagnose the root cause of the failure. The symbolic name ERROR_BAD_DESCRIPTOR_FORMAT maps directly to this numeric code and is commonly referenced in Microsoft documentation, developer forums, and system logs. Understanding this error and its context within security, authentication, and user privileges is essential for effective troubleshooting.
Common Causes
- System resource conflict: A security descriptor is not in the right format (absolute or self-relative).
- User account lacks required permissions
- Group Policy restricts access
- Authentication credentials expired
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Read the full guide →Step-by-Step Solutions
- Right-click the application → 'Run as administrator'
- If Error 1361 (ERROR_BAD_DESCRIPTOR_FORMAT) resolves, it's a permissions issue
- For permanent fix, right-click → Properties → Compatibility → check 'Run as administrator'
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Diagnostic Command
Run this PowerShell command to find related events in your system log:
Get-EventLog -LogName System -Newest 20 | Where-Object {$_.Message -like "*1361*" -or $_.Message -like "*ERROR_BAD_DESCRIPTOR_FORMAT*"} | Format-List💡 Open PowerShell as Administrator, paste the command above, and press Enter.
Prevention Tips
- Apply least-privilege principle
- Audit user accounts regularly
- Keep security policies and AV updated