Device Manager code Code 3: Driver corrupted or system low on memory
Updated
Cleared for publishing after the automated checks on .
What the code means
"The driver for this device might be corrupted, or your system may be running low on memory or other resources. (Code 3)" (Code 3 - CM_PROB_OUT_OF_MEMORY)
Code facts for Code 3
| Code as Windows shows it | Code 3 |
|---|---|
| Type | Device Manager code |
| Symbolic name | CM_PROB_OUT_OF_MEMORY |
| Hexadecimal, 8 digits | 0x3 |
| Decimal (unsigned) | 3 |
| Decimal (signed 32-bit) | 3 |
| Group | Device Manager and device errors |
Read with care
- Device Manager codes are decimal problem numbers (CM_PROB values), not Win32 or HRESULT codes. Read as Win32 error 3 it would be ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND, which is unrelated. (Device Manager Error Messages, System Error Codes (0-499))
Code facts: Code 3 - CM_PROB_OUT_OF_MEMORY (Microsoft Learn, CC BY 4.0), checked Nov 14, 2026.
Code facts: Device Manager Error Messages (Microsoft Learn, CC BY 4.0), checked Nov 14, 2026.
Where this error shows up
This code shows up in Device Manager, in the status box of a device that has a problem, or in an app that cannot use a device (such as the Camera app).
Applies to
Windows 11 and Windows 10 (as listed under 'Applies To' at the top of the Microsoft page)
Try these first
These steps carry no risk flag in the data. They keep the order of the full list below, which is not reordered. A step without a flag is not a promise that it is safe for your computer.
4 steps to try, in order
Steps are grouped by the Microsoft page they come from. The page lists only what those pages give; other causes of Code 3 are not covered.
If this page and Microsoft's page differ, follow Microsoft's page.
Microsoft also gives general steps that cover this code: see the general steps in the Device Manager and device errors group. Each block there says which codes its Microsoft page gives the steps for.
From: Error codes in Device Manager in Windows
Source: Error codes in Device Manager in Windows (Microsoft Support), checked Nov 14, 2026. Summary in our own words; Microsoft's page has the full steps.
Close some apps
If memory is short, close a few open programs to free some up.
To see memory and system resources, open Task Manager (press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, then select Task Manager). To see the virtual memory settings, open System Properties, go to the Advanced tab and select Settings under Performance.
Add memory
The PC may need more RAM installed.
From: Code 3 - CM_PROB_OUT_OF_MEMORY
Source: Code 3 - CM_PROB_OUT_OF_MEMORY (Microsoft Learn), checked Nov 14, 2026. © Microsoft, licensed under CC BY 4.0. Steps shortened and reworded by PC Driver Update.
Microsoft's driver documentation page for this problem code (written for driver developers); only its recommended resolution is used.
Free up memory
If the driver works but the computer lacks memory to run the device and other applications at the same time, close some applications.
Add memory
You might have to install additional RAM.
Stop and get help
If these steps do not fix the problem, or you are not sure about a step, stop and get help from Microsoft Support or from the maker of your PC. Stop at once if the data on this computer is at risk: back up your files first, or ask a professional before you go on.
Dates and review
| Automated checks | first check: ; second check: ; third check: ; fourth check: |
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| Microsoft pages read |
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| Review status | Cleared for publishing after the automated checks on . |