ERROR_PROFILING_AT_LIMIT - 553 (0x229)
The number of active profiling objects is at the maximum and no more may be started.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Introduction
The ERROR_PROFILING_AT_LIMIT error code, represented by the numeric value 553 or its hexadecimal equivalent 0x229, indicates that the system has reached a predefined limit on the number of active profiling objects. This limitation is designed to prevent excessive resource consumption and ensure stable performance.
Technical Meaning
This error signifies that the maximum allowable number of profiling sessions or objects has been exceeded. Profiling in Windows involves collecting detailed information about application behavior, which can be resource-intensive. The system enforces a limit to manage these resources effectively.
Error Details
The ERROR_PROFILING_AT_LIMIT error is specific to scenarios where profiling operations are initiated but cannot proceed due to the active profiling count reaching its threshold. This threshold is typically defined by system policies or application-specific configurations and is intended to prevent overwhelming the system with too many simultaneous profiling tasks.
Usage Context
This error can occur in various contexts, such as when attempting to start a new performance monitoring session using tools like Performance Monitor (PerfMon) or other profiling utilities. It may also be encountered during development or testing phases where multiple profiling sessions are initiated simultaneously.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as an indication that the system has reached its predefined limit for active profiling objects. This can impact performance monitoring and analysis tasks, potentially leading to incomplete data collection if additional profiling is required.
Related Errors
ERROR_TOO_MANY_SECRETS(0x80131502): Indicates a similar limitation but in the context of cryptographic operations.ERROR_MAX_SESSIONS_REACHED(0x80070694): Another resource limit error related to session management.
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_PROFILING_AT_LIMIT error mean?
A: It indicates that the system has reached its maximum number of active profiling objects, preventing additional profiling from starting.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: You may need to terminate existing profiling sessions or adjust the system configuration to increase the limit on active profiling objects.
Summary
The ERROR_PROFILING_AT_LIMIT error is a specific resource limitation that occurs when the maximum number of active profiling objects has been reached. Developers should be aware of this limitation and manage their profiling tasks accordingly to ensure optimal performance monitoring and analysis.