ERROR_DS_USER_BUFFER_TO_SMALL - 8309 (0x2075)
The user buffer is too small.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The error code ERROR_DS_USER_BUFFER_TO_SMALL (8309, 0x2075) indicates that a user buffer provided by the caller is insufficient in size to hold the data requested or returned by a function.
Error Details
This error typically occurs when an API expects a buffer of a certain minimum size but receives one that is too small. The exact size required can vary depending on the specific operation and the data being processed.
Usage Context
This error code is commonly encountered in scenarios where data is being transferred between the application and the operating system, such as when reading or writing to files, directories, or other system resources.
Developer Interpretation
When this error is returned, it suggests that the buffer provided by the developer is not large enough to accommodate the requested data. The developer should ensure that the buffer size matches the expected requirements of the API being called. This can be achieved by consulting the documentation for the specific function and ensuring that the buffer size is correctly calculated.
Related Errors
ERROR_INSUFFICIENT_BUFFER(122)ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER(87)ERROR_MORE_DATA(234)
FAQ
Q: What does the error code 8309 mean?
A: The error code 8309, or ERROR_DS_USER_BUFFER_TO_SMALL, indicates that a user buffer provided by the caller is too small to hold the requested data.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that the buffer size you provide matches the expected requirements of the API. Consult the documentation for the specific function and verify that your buffer size is correct.
Summary
The ERROR_DS_USER_BUFFER_TO_SMALL error code (8309) signifies that a user buffer provided by the caller is insufficient in size to hold the requested data. Developers should ensure that their buffers are appropriately sized when calling Windows APIs to avoid this error.