The ERROR_TOO_MANY_DESCRIPTORS issue generally arises when a process or the entire system surpasses the allowable limit for file descriptors. These descriptors are numerical representations of open I/O resources, including files, sockets, and pipes. When this maximum limit is reached, the system becomes unable to open additional files or resources, triggering this particular error message.
This situation is most common in servers that engage with a high volume of simultaneous connections or open files. Nevertheless, users on Windows 10 and 11 may encounter this error due to a restricted number of file descriptors available to specific applications. Additionally, it can occur if certain applications fail to close file descriptors correctly after use.
How can I resolve ERROR_TOO_MANY_DESCRIPTORS?
1. Raise the file descriptor limit
- Launch the Registry Editor by pressing Win + R, entering
regedit, and pressing Enter. - Follow this path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters. - Right-click in an empty area, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it MaxUserPort.
- Double-click on MaxUserPort and change the value to 65534 (in decimal).
- Create another DWORD entry titled TcpTimedWaitDelay and set it to 30 (decimal).
- Exit the Registry Editor and restart your system.
Implementing these adjustments can mitigate the ERROR_TOO_MANY_DESCRIPTORS error, especially if an application is attempting to create excessive connections. Nonetheless, it’s also wise to review the application’s configuration and impose limitations on its resource usage whenever feasible.
2. Keep track of and control open files
- Press Win + R, type
resmon, and hit Enter. - Navigate to the CPU tab and expand the section for Associated Handles.
- Identify processes with an abundance of open handles.
- Examine and resolve any resource leaks or complications tied to particular applications.
The Resource Monitor can effectively track open files and determine which processes are consuming many file descriptors. This allows you to either revise the application settings or potentially opt for a different application that manages resources more efficiently.
Instances of ERROR_TOO_MANY_DESCRIPTORS are quite uncommon, as Windows itself does not enforce a strict limit on file descriptors. However, your system may struggle with processes that attempt to utilize excessive descriptors.
Thus, it is critical to monitor these processes as suggested above, terminate them as needed, and discontinue the use of problematic applications. Additionally, keeping your software and operating system updated can sometimes resolve these types of issues, as developers often release fixes.
If you’ve recently installed new hardware and this error emerged, consider updating the corresponding drivers.
By following these recommendations, you should effectively address the ERROR_TOO_MANY_DESCRIPTORS error, allowing your system to manage the necessary number of open files and resources. Should you require further assistance, feel free to leave a comment below.