ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY - 14 (0xE)
Not enough storage is available to complete this operation.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY error code, represented by the numeric value 14 or hexadecimal 0x0E, indicates that there is insufficient memory available to complete a requested operation. This error typically arises when the system cannot allocate enough memory for the task at hand.
Error Details
This generic error message does not provide specific details about the type of resource being exhausted (e.g., physical RAM or virtual memory). It is commonly encountered in scenarios where an application attempts to perform a memory-intensive operation, such as allocating large buffers or performing complex data processing tasks. The exact cause can vary depending on the context and the nature of the operation.
Usage Context
ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY can occur in various contexts within Windows applications and system operations. Common scenarios include:
- Allocating memory for a new object or structure
- Performing operations that require significant temporary storage
- Handling large data sets or complex computations
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as an indication that the current operation cannot be completed due to insufficient available memory resources. This can lead to application crashes, performance degradation, or failure of specific functions within the software.
Common Causes
- Insufficient physical RAM on the system
- High memory usage by other applications or processes
- Inadequate virtual memory configuration
- Memory leaks in the application code
Related Errors
ERROR_INSUFFICIENT_BUFFER(122)ERROR_NOT_ENOUGH_MEMORY(8)ERROR_ARENA_CORRUPT(64)
FAQ
Q: What does ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY mean?
A: It indicates that the system cannot allocate enough memory to complete a requested operation.
Q: How can I resolve this error?
A: Ensure sufficient physical and virtual memory are available, optimize application code for better memory management, or reduce the scope of the operation requiring excessive memory.
Summary
ERROR_OUTOFMEMORY is a generic error indicating insufficient memory resources. Developers should handle this error by ensuring proper resource management and optimizing applications to avoid such conditions.