Medium
Operating Systems
✓ Solution Verified by Community (0+ upvotes)
How to fix error error-invalid-category in Windows 11
ERROR_INVALID_CATEGORY = 117
Fix based on community reports and expert analysis. Last verified: 2026-08-12
· How we verify fixes
| Error Code | error-invalid-category |
|---|---|
| Affected System | Windows 11 (Microsoft) |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Estimated Time | 30 min |
| Requires Admin Rights | ⚠️ Yes |
Solution Steps
- 1 Update the problematic software or driver to the latest version. Check the manufacturer's website for Windows 11 compatibility. If an update is available, install it and restart.
- 2 Run the program in compatibility mode: Right-click the executable, select Properties → Compatibility, and check 'Run this program in compatibility mode for' and choose an older Windows version like Windows 8 or 7. This can trick the program into working.
- 3 Check Device Manager for driver issues: Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager. Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Right-click and select 'Update driver' to search for updates.
- 4 If the error occurs during installation, try running the installer as an administrator: Right-click the installer and select 'Run as administrator'. This gives it the necessary permissions.
- 5 Use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter: Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Program Compatibility Troubleshooter. Run it and follow the prompts to apply recommended fixes.
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