ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM - 635 (0x27B)
{Virtual Memory Minimum Too Low} Your system is low on virtual memory. Windows is increasing the size of your virtual memory paging file. During this process, memory requests for some applications may be denied. For more information, see Help.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The error code ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM with the numeric value 635 and hexadecimal representation 0x27B indicates that your system is experiencing a shortage of virtual memory. This condition triggers an automatic adjustment by Windows to increase the size of the virtual memory paging file, which can result in denial of memory requests for some applications.
Error Details
This error typically occurs when the available virtual memory on the system falls below the minimum required threshold. The operating system then attempts to allocate more space in the paging file to accommodate additional memory demands. During this process, certain memory allocation requests may fail due to insufficient resources.
Usage Context
The ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM error is commonly encountered during application execution when there is a sudden increase in memory usage or when the system's virtual memory settings are not sufficient to meet current requirements. This can happen on systems with limited physical RAM, especially under heavy workload conditions.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should be aware that this error may lead to unpredictable behavior in applications due to failed memory allocations. It is important to ensure that the application's resource usage patterns are well understood and managed to avoid such situations. Additionally, monitoring system performance and adjusting virtual memory settings can help mitigate the occurrence of this error.
Related Errors
- ERROR_NOT_ENOUGH_MEMORY (1420, 0x58C): Indicates insufficient physical or virtual memory for an operation.
- ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY (1409, 0x57D): Similar to
ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM, but specifically related to memory allocation failures.
FAQ
Q: What does the error code ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM mean?
A: It indicates that your system is low on virtual memory and Windows is attempting to increase the size of the paging file. Memory requests for some applications may be denied during this process.
Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?
A: Ensure adequate physical RAM, adjust virtual memory settings in System Properties, or optimize application resource usage patterns.
Summary
The ERROR_COMMITMENT_MINIMUM error is a generic indication of insufficient virtual memory resources. Developers should be prepared to handle such errors by ensuring proper resource management and system configuration.