Error
Error Code:
264
MongoDB Error 264: Too Many Open Files
Description
MongoDB Error 264, 'Too Many Files Open', indicates that the operating system has reached its limit for the number of open file descriptors allowed for the MongoDB process. This typically occurs under heavy load or with misconfigured system limits, preventing MongoDB from opening new files needed for operations.
Error Message
Too Many Files Open
Known Causes
4 known causesInsufficient OS File Limits
The operating system's configured `ulimit` for open file descriptors is too low for the MongoDB process, restricting its resource usage.
Excessive Client Connections
Each active client connection to MongoDB consumes file descriptors, and a large number of concurrent connections can quickly exhaust available limits.
Large Database Schema
A MongoDB instance managing a very high number of databases, collections, or indexes can naturally require more file descriptors than usual.
External Resource Contention
Other processes running on the same server might be consuming a significant number of file descriptors, leaving insufficient resources for MongoDB.
Solutions
Coming SoonGeneral Troubleshooting Tips
- Check the error message carefully for specific details
- Review recent changes that might have caused the error
- Search for the exact error code in the official documentation
- Check log files for additional context
- Try restarting the application or service