Fix the VMware "Not enough physical memory" Error

First, review the memory assigned to the VM. If it is too large relative to total host capacity, reduce the configured memory in the VM settings. Lowering reserved memory or allowing memory swapping can also help the VM start.

Second, reboot the host machine. Background services or applications may lock memory so VMware cannot use it, even when Task Manager shows free RAM. Restarting the system releases that locked memory.

Third, run VMware as Administrator so it has permission to allocate memory resources.

Fourth, adjust the configuration file (config.ini). Adding or changing memory reservation parameters can let VMware use recommended memory settings instead of strictly locked values.

Fifth, check version compatibility. Operating system updates can conflict with older VMware versions, and updating VMware to a supported version often resolves the error.

Finally, if you suspect the configuration is corrupted, creating a new VM may help, provided no critical data is lost.

Most physical memory errors go away once you adjust memory allocation, clear locked resources, update the software, and review the configuration settings.

Q1: Why does Task Manager show free RAM but VMware still reports insufficient memory?

Some services lock memory, making it unavailable to VMware.

Q2: Does rebooting help fix the issue?

Yes, restarting the host releases locked memory and clears temporary conflicts.

Q3: Can allocating too much RAM to a VM cause this error?

Yes, over-allocation can prevent the VM from reserving the memory it needs.

Q4: Should VMware be updated if this error appears after an OS upgrade?

Yes, compatibility issues can cause memory allocation errors.