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20 IllegalOperation: Illegal operation

MongoDB

What does it mean?

The requested operation is invalid/forbidden for the server's current state or the target object's type. MongoDB returns this generic error when it rejects a logically disallowed action.

Why does it happen?

Attempting a collection-only operation on a view; an invalid rename between two databases; a forbidden change on system collections; or an administrative action not allowed by the replica set/sharding configuration. Varies by context.

How to fix it

Read the details of the error message; it usually states explicitly which operation was forbidden and why. Adapt the operation to the target object's type (e.g. work on the underlying collection instead of the view). For rename/move operations, review MongoDB's restrictions (such as renameCollection within the same DB). Check the cluster state (replica set/sharding).

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