Encountering the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Google Chrome on Windows 10/11 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your browsing experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the meaning of this error, explore its potential causes, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it effectively.
Additionally, we’ll discuss how you can fix the error using Command Prompt (CMD), shortcuts, and clear Chrome cache to optimize memory usage.
What Does “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome Mean?
When you encounter the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Google Chrome, it indicates that the browser has exhausted the available memory resources allocated to it by the operating system.
This often leads to sluggish performance, unresponsive tabs, or even browser crashes. The error typically occurs when Chrome consumes more memory than your system can handle, resulting in instability and poor browsing performance.
Causes of the Error Code Out of Memory in Chrome on Windows 10/11
Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome:
- Excessive Tab Usage: Opening too many tabs simultaneously can strain the memory resources of Chrome, leading to the out of memory error.
- Memory Leaks: Certain websites or browser extensions may contain memory leaks, causing Chrome to consume excessive memory over time.
- Insufficient System Memory: If your system lacks sufficient RAM or virtual memory, Chrome may encounter memory issues, especially when running alongside other resource-intensive applications.
- Browser Extensions: Some Chrome extensions may be poorly optimized or incompatible with your system, contributing to increased memory usage and the occurrence of the error.
Step-by-Step Ways to Fix Error Code Out of Memory in Chrome on Windows 10/11
Follow these detailed troubleshooting steps to resolve the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome effectively:
1. Close Unnecessary Tabs and Extensions
- Close unnecessary tabs and browser windows to reduce memory usage.
- Disable or remove unnecessary Chrome extensions that may contribute to memory consumption.
2. Update Chrome to the Latest Version
- Ensure that Google Chrome is up to date by navigating to the browser’s settings and selecting “About Chrome” to check for updates.
3. Increase System Memory Allocation
- Increase the amount of virtual memory (pagefile) allocated to your system to provide Chrome with additional memory resources.
- Navigate to Control Panel > System and Security > System > Advanced system settings > Performance > Settings > Advanced > Virtual memory, and adjust the pagefile size accordingly.
4. Enable Hardware Acceleration
- Enable hardware acceleration in Chrome settings to offload certain tasks to your GPU, reducing CPU and memory usage.
- Go to Chrome settings > Advanced > System, and toggle on “Use hardware acceleration when available.”
5. Reset Chrome Settings
- Reset Chrome settings to their default state to resolve any configuration issues that may contribute to the error.
- Go to Chrome settings > Advanced > Reset settings, and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Clear Chrome Cache and Cookies
- Clearing Chrome cache and cookies can free up disk space and improve browser performance.
- Go to Chrome settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data, and select the desired time range and data types to clear.
7. Monitor Task Manager
Regularly monitor Chrome’s memory usage in the Task Manager to identify any abnormal spikes or patterns. This can help you pinpoint specific tabs, extensions, or websites that may be causing excessive memory consumption.
8. Use Chrome Task Manager
Chrome has its own built-in Task Manager that allows you to see detailed information about each tab, extension, and process running within the browser. Access it by pressing Shift + Esc or by going to Chrome menu > More tools > Task Manager.
9. Disable Hardware Acceleration Temporarily
While hardware acceleration can improve performance in some cases, it may also cause compatibility issues with certain system configurations. Try disabling hardware acceleration temporarily to see if it resolves the out of memory error.
10. Consider Using Chrome Cleanup Tool
Google provides a Chrome Cleanup Tool that can scan and remove software that may cause problems with Chrome, including malware and unwanted programs. Download and run the tool from the official Google website to ensure your browser is free from potential threats.
11. Reduce Chrome’s Memory Footprint
Chrome offers various experimental features and flags that allow you to tweak its memory usage and performance. Experiment with these settings cautiously to find the configuration that works best for your system.
12. Optimize System Resources
Ensure that your system is optimized for optimal performance by regularly updating drivers, removing unnecessary startup programs, and performing system maintenance tasks such as disk cleanup and defragmentation.
13. Consider Using Chrome Extensions Wisely
While Chrome extensions can enhance your browsing experience, they can also contribute to memory issues if not used judiciously. Limit the number of installed extensions and regularly review and remove those that are no longer needed.
14. Monitor System Temperature
Excessive heat can affect system performance and stability, including Chrome’s memory usage. Monitor your system’s temperature using hardware monitoring tools and ensure adequate cooling to prevent overheating.
How to Fix Chrome Out of Memory Error Code Through CMD and Shortcuts on Windows 10/11
To fix the Chrome out of memory error using Command Prompt (CMD) and shortcuts on Windows, follow these steps:
- Close Chrome: Close all Chrome browser windows and ensure that Chrome processes are not running in the background.
- Run CMD as Administrator: Right-click on the Start menu, select “Command Prompt (Admin)” to open CMD with administrative privileges.
- Flush DNS Cache: In CMD, type the command
ipconfig /flushdnsand press Enter to flush the DNS resolver cache. - Reset TCP/IP Stack: Type the command
netsh int ip resetand press Enter to reset the TCP/IP stack. - Reset Winsock Catalog: Type the command
netsh winsock resetand press Enter to reset the Winsock catalog. - Restart Your Computer: After executing the commands, restart your computer to apply the changes.
How to Reset Memory on Google Chrome and Clear Cache on Windows 10/11
To reset memory usage on Google Chrome and clear cache on Windows 10/11, follow these steps:
- Open Chrome Settings: Click on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner of Chrome, then select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
- Advanced Settings: Scroll down and click on “Advanced” to expand advanced settings.
- Restore Settings to Their Original Defaults: Under the “Reset and clean up” section, click on “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
- Confirm Reset: Click on “Reset settings” to confirm. This will reset Chrome settings, including startup page, search engine, and pinned tabs.
- Clear Browser Cache: To clear Chrome cache, go to Chrome settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data. Select the time range and data types you want to clear, then click on “Clear data.”
Conclusion
Encountering the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Google Chrome on Windows 10/11 can be frustrating, but with the detailed solutions provided in this guide, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue.
By understanding the causes of the error and following the step-by-step troubleshooting steps, you can optimize Chrome’s memory usage and ensure smooth browsing performance.
Additionally, utilizing Command Prompt (CMD) and shortcuts to fix the error and clearing Chrome cache can further enhance browser stability and performance, providing you with an optimal browsing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Error Code Out of Memory in Chrome on Windows
Q1. What does the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome mean?
The “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome indicates that the browser has exceeded the available memory resources allocated to it by the operating system. This can lead to sluggish performance, unresponsive tabs, or browser crashes.
Q2. What causes the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome on Windows?
Several factors can contribute to this error, including excessive tab usage, memory leaks from websites or extensions, insufficient system memory, and conflicts with browser extensions or settings.
Q3. How can I fix the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome on Windows?
To resolve this error, you can try closing unnecessary tabs and extensions, updating Chrome to the latest version, increasing system memory allocation, enabling hardware acceleration, resetting Chrome settings, and clearing browser cache.
Q4. Can I fix the “Error Code Out of Memory” using Command Prompt on Windows?
While Command Prompt can be used to perform various system maintenance tasks, fixing the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome typically requires adjusting browser settings or clearing cache within Chrome itself rather than using Command Prompt.
Q5. How do I clear Chrome cache on Windows?
To clear Chrome cache on Windows, open Chrome settings, navigate to Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data, choose the desired time range and data types to clear, and then click Clear data.
Q6. Is there a way to prevent the “Error Code Out of Memory” from occurring in Chrome?
You can prevent the “Error Code Out of Memory” by managing your browsing habits, limiting the number of open tabs, using lightweight extensions, keeping Chrome and your system updated, and regularly clearing browser cache and cookies.
Q7. Can third-party software contribute to the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome?
Yes, certain third-party software or utilities running on your system may conflict with Chrome and contribute to memory issues. It’s recommended to identify and disable or uninstall any such software to resolve the error.
Q8. How do I monitor Chrome’s memory usage?
You can monitor Chrome’s memory usage using the built-in Task Manager in Chrome. Press Shift + Esc or go to Chrome menu > More tools > Task Manager to access it. Additionally, you can use the Windows Task Manager to monitor overall system memory usage.
Q9. Should I consider using Chrome Cleanup Tool to fix the error?
The Chrome Cleanup Tool can help identify and remove software that may cause problems with Chrome, including malware and unwanted programs. Running the tool may help resolve the error if it’s caused by such software.
10. What if the error persists after trying all troubleshooting steps?
If the “Error Code Out of Memory” persists after trying all troubleshooting steps, consider seeking further assistance from Chrome support forums or contacting Google support for personalized assistance.
These frequently asked questions address common concerns and provide guidance for effectively troubleshooting and resolving the “Error Code Out of Memory” in Chrome on Windows.
