⚠️ 3 verified solutions available for Error 117 — Last updated 2026-03-13
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: 2026-03-13 ⏱️ 3 Solutions

🎮 Common Scenario: Are you experiencing Error 117 while launching or installing Apex Legends? The solutions below directly address the system interactions specific to this application.

The Ultimate Auto-Fix Script

Download our advanced, custom-built Smart Diagnostic Script (.bat). It safely creates a System Restore Point, applies targeted fixes based on advanced diagnostics for Error 117, and generates a detailed HTML repair report.

Safe & Verified Restore Point Protected HTML Report Included
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CRITICAL INSTRUCTION: Once downloaded, you MUST right-click the file and select "Run as Administrator". If opened normally, it will not function.

💡 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  • Outdated or corrupted device drivers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

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

🛡️ Prevention Tips

  • Regularly update device drivers
  • Install compatible applications
  • Run system file checks regularly
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Last updated: 2026-03-13
📖
Based on Official Microsoft Documentation
Solutions Tested on Windows 10 & 11
Error codes sourced from Microsoft Win32 SDK. Updated 2026-03-13.
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