ErrorInvalidParameter

ErrorInvalidParameter is a generic error reported by software components when a function or method is called with an invalid parameter. It does not belong to a single language or framework, but appears as a return value, an exception, or an error code signaling that a supplied argument fails to meet required constraints.

In Windows environments the closest official identifier is ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER, a Win32 error code with the value 87. When exposed through API boundaries, it is often mapped to the HRESULT E_INVALIDARG (0x80070057). In many languages the same situation is expressed as an ArgumentException or IllegalArgumentException. POSIX-like systems typically use errno EINVAL for invalid arguments.

Common causes include values outside the allowed range, null or missing values when non-null is required, incorrect types, or inconsistencies among related parameters.

Handling involves validating inputs before use, returning an explicit error, or throwing an appropriate exception. API design benefits from clear parameter contracts, early validation, informative messages, and consistent error handling so callers can correct inputs or fail gracefully.

Impact and design notes: treating invalid parameters as a distinct error helps distinguish misuse from internal failures and supports cross-language interoperability. When more specific information is available, more precise codes or exceptions are preferred to aid diagnosis.

See also: EINVAL, ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER, E_INVALIDARG, ArgumentException, IllegalArgumentException.