ERROR_SHARING_BUFFER_EXCEEDED - 36 (0x24)
Too many files opened for sharing.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_SHARING_BUFFER_EXCEEDED error code indicates that a file or directory operation has failed due to an excessive number of files being opened for sharing. This limit is imposed by the system to prevent resource exhaustion and ensure stable performance.
Error Details
This specific error typically occurs when attempting to open additional files for sharing, but the maximum allowed number of shared files has already been reached. The exact threshold can vary depending on the system configuration and version of Windows.
Usage Context
The ERROR_SHARING_BUFFER_EXCEEDED is commonly encountered in scenarios where multiple processes or threads are concurrently accessing a file or directory that is set to be shared. This error can also arise when attempting to open too many files for sharing within a single process, especially if the operation involves a large number of files.
Developer Interpretation
When encountering this error, developers should consider the following:
- Ensure that the number of files opened for sharing does not exceed system limits.
- Optimize file access patterns to minimize the number of shared files in use simultaneously.
- Use appropriate synchronization mechanisms to manage concurrent access to shared resources.
Related Errors
ERROR_TOO_MANY_OPEN_FILES(24)ERROR_SHARING_VIOLATION(33)ERROR_HANDLE_EOF(38)
FAQ
Q: What does the ERROR_SHARING_BUFFER_EXCEEDED error mean?
A: It indicates that too many files are being opened for sharing, exceeding the system's limit.
Q: How can I avoid this error?
A: Ensure that the number of shared files is within the system limits and optimize file access patterns to reduce concurrent usage.
Summary
The ERROR_SHARING_BUFFER_EXCEEDED error signifies an attempt to open too many files for sharing, which exceeds the system's configured limit. Developers should manage file sharing operations carefully to avoid this issue.