Not enough memory resources are available (CMD)

Published by Nyau Wai Hoe - Updated on

If you encounter the error message “Not enough memory resources are available to process this command” in Windows 11 or Windows 10, it typically means there isn’t sufficient memory to execute the command, especially in the command prompt (CMD). This error can also occur when accessing shared items on a Windows server.

In this article, we will discuss various solutions to fix this issue and make your Windows system run smoothly again.

Not enough memory resources are available to process this command

Possible causes of the error

Understanding the potential causes of the error can help you identify the right solution. Here are some common reasons why you might be experiencing this issue:

  1. Insufficient memory allocation: Windows might not allocate enough memory resources for a specific task or application, causing the error.
  2. Corrupted system files: Essential system files may become corrupted due to various reasons, such as an unexpected system shutdown or a faulty software installation. This can lead to the error message.
  3. Software conflicts: Some programs, especially those that require system-level access, may conflict with the core Windows services and cause memory issues.
  4. Malware infections: Malicious software may infiltrate your system and disrupt core services, leading to the error message.

Not enough memory resources are available to process this command in Windows 11/10

This error is usually caused by disruption of Windows core services due to corrupted system files, software conflicts involving system files, or malware infections. Follow the steps below to repair corrupted or missing files using SFC and DISM tools.

Run System File Check

  1. Open a command prompt with admin privileges.
  2. Enter the following command: sfc /scannow
  3. This will run the system file scan to automatically scan and repair corrupted or missing files.

SFC scannow Windows 11

Also see: How to Startup Repair Windows 10/11 using Command Prompt

Run DISM Tool

If the issue persists or the SFC tool returns the same error, try using the DISM tool to repair the Windows image.

  1. In the command prompt, enter the following command: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  2. DISM, short for Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management, is a built-in Windows tool that updates files and corrects problems when your Windows image becomes unserviceable.

DISM tool to fix Not enough memory resources error

Suggested Guide: How to Know Which Process is Using a File in Windows 11

Repair upgrade using Windows installation disk

If the previous solution doesn’t resolve the issue, perform an upgrade repair using a Windows 11/10 installation disk. This method is similar to resetting Windows to factory default but allows you to keep your files. Be sure to backup important files before proceeding, and follow these steps:

  1. Prepare an external hard drive or a USB flash drive with at least 8GB of space.
  2. Visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/software-download/windows10 and click on “Download tool now” to download the Media Creation Tool.
  3. Run the tool to create a Windows 11 or Windows 10 installation disk on your external drive.
  4. Insert the installation disk into the problematic computer.
  5. Run the setup.exe from the drive. If you can’t access Windows Explorer, run it from Task Manager by pressing Win+R keys, then type taskmgr. Click File > Run new task, and browse to the setup.exe.
  6. In the setup, select “Upgrade this PC now,” and deselect “Check for new updates” when prompted.Windows 10 Upgrade this PC now
  7. Choose “Keep all your files.”
  8. Follow the remaining instructions to complete the process.

Restart your computer and check if the error is resolved.

    Fix using Registry Editor (For Windows Server shared items access)

    If the error occurs when accessing shared items on a Windows server, follow these steps to increase the IRPStackSize registry value:

    1. Go to the Start menu. Search for regedit and open it.
    2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters
    3. If the IRPStackSize entry is not found in the subkey, create it by right-clicking anywhere in the right pane. Select New, then DWORD (32-bit) value. Name it IRPStackSize.
    4. Double-click on the IRPStackSize entry, and in the data value, enter a larger value, for example, a value of 20 with a decimal base. We recommend starting with a slight increase in the value first. If the “not enough memory resources are available to process this command” issue persists, return to this registry entry and incrementally increase the value until the problem is resolved.

    Wrap-up

    By following these solutions, you should be able to resolve the “not enough memory resources are available to process this command” error in Windows 11/10. Remember to always keep your system updated and perform regular maintenance to prevent similar issues in the future. If the problem persists after trying these solutions, consider seeking professional assistance or contacting Microsoft support for further guidance.


    Nyau Wai Hoe
    Nyau Wai Hoe is the Founder and Chief Editor of WindowsDigitals.com. With a degree in software engineering and over 12 years of experience in the tech support industry, Nyau has established himself as an expert in the field, with a primary focus on the Microsoft Windows operating system. As a tech enthusiast, he loves exploring new technologies and leveraging them to solve real-life problems.

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