Knowledge

ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_QUEUE_DROP_MM - 13811 (0x35F3)

Negotiation request sat in Queue too long.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Introduction

The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_QUEUE_DROP_MM error code (13811, 0x35F3) is encountered in the context of Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) and its implementation within Windows. This article provides a detailed technical analysis of this specific error, including its meaning, common causes, real-world context, and resolution guidance.

Technical Background

The IPsec protocol suite ensures secure communication over networks by providing encryption and authentication services. The IKE (Internet Key Exchange) component is responsible for establishing the security associations required for IPsec to function correctly. During this process, negotiation requests are queued for processing. If a request remains in the queue for too long, it may be dropped due to resource constraints or other limitations.

Error Details

The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_QUEUE_DROP_MM error indicates that an IKE negotiation request was not processed within the expected timeframe and was subsequently discarded. This can occur when the system is under heavy load or when there are insufficient resources available for processing such requests efficiently.

Common Causes

  1. Exceeding Limits: The system may have reached a limit on the number of pending IKE negotiation requests that it can handle simultaneously.
  2. Resource Constraints: Insufficient CPU, memory, or other system resources could prevent timely processing of the request.
  3. Incorrect Usage Context: Misuse or incorrect configuration of IPsec policies and settings might lead to this error.

Real-World Context

This error is typically observed in environments where high volumes of network traffic are processed through IPsec, such as enterprise networks with stringent security requirements or virtual private networks (VPNs) experiencing heavy usage. It can also occur during system startup or when the system is under significant load due to other processes.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the context in which it occurs. While the connection may be temporarily disrupted, the overall security posture of the network should not be significantly compromised. However, persistent occurrences might indicate underlying issues that need addressing.

How to Diagnose

  1. Review Operation Context: Check if there are any unusual spikes in network traffic or system load at the time the error was logged.
  2. Validate Parameters: Ensure that IPsec policies and configurations are correctly set up and not causing unnecessary delays.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Verify that all objects involved (e.g., security associations, negotiation requests) are properly configured and not conflicting with each other.

How to Resolve

  1. Correct Parameter Usage: Adjust any misconfigured parameters or policies to ensure they align with the expected usage patterns.
  2. Adjust Operation Context: If the system is under heavy load, consider optimizing resource allocation or reducing unnecessary network traffic.
  3. Restore Data: In cases where data corruption might be a factor, restore from backups if available.

Developer Notes

Developers should ensure that their applications and services are configured to handle IPsec negotiations efficiently and do not inadvertently create excessive load on the system. Regular monitoring of system performance and resource usage can help prevent such errors.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_NEGOTIATION_FAILED (13809, 0x35F1): Indicates a failure in the IKE negotiation process.
  • ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_PROCESSING_ERROR (13826, 0x35FC): Occurs when an error is encountered during processing of an IKE message.

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_QUEUE_DROP_MM error mean?

A: This error indicates that an IKE negotiation request was not processed within the expected timeframe and was dropped due to resource constraints or excessive queue length.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure proper configuration of IPsec policies, monitor system performance, and optimize resource usage to handle high network traffic efficiently.

Summary

The ERROR_IPSEC_IKE_QUEUE_DROP_MM error is a specific indication that an IKE negotiation request was not processed in time due to queue management issues. Understanding the context and causes can help in diagnosing and resolving this issue effectively. Regular monitoring and optimization of system resources are key to preventing such errors.