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Node.jsNode.jsError code

EMFILE

Too many open files in system

What does this code mean?

Code EMFILE · An issue reported by Node.js.

Official explanation · Original text

EMFILE (Too many open files in system): Maximum number of file descriptors allowable on the system has been reached, and requests for another descriptor cannot be fulfilled until at least one has been closed. This is encountered when opening many files at once in parallel, especially on systems (in particular, macOS) where there is a low file descriptor limit for processes. To remedy a low limit, run ulimit -n 2048 in the same shell that will run the Node.js process.

Troubleshooting and diagnostic links

First check that the document's product, version, and environment match your situation.

Source and terms of use

Errors | Node.js v26.13.1 Documentation ↗

Creator: Node.js contributors; Joyent, Inc. and other Node contributors
License: MIT License (Node.js documentation)
Checked on: 2026-11-12

Modifications: English prose extracted; whitespace normalized; Korean context and classified official links added. Python code examples not redistributed.

Source details · Original licenses and notices