Fix: Issue: Too many other files are currently in use by 16-bit programs.

On Windows 7 64 bit systems you encounter below error when you attempt to launch any executable by right clicking and choosing “Runas Administrator”.

ERROR:

[Window Title]
C:\Tools\procexp.exe

[Content]
Too many other files are currently in use by 16-bit programs. Exit one or more 16-bit programs, or increase the value of the FILES command in your Config.sys file.

[OK]

 

CAUSE:

The “Consent UI for administrative applications” (C:\Windows\system32\consent.exe) process seemingly hangs and thus causes much of UI related issues.

 

WORKAROUND:

Kill all the Consent.exe process, then you’ll have your system restored back to normal operating status.

 

Note: When you kill the consent.exe process Windows reports an error as shown below:

[Window Title]
C:\System\Tools\procexp.exe

[Content]
C:\System\Tools\procexp.exe

Incorrect function.

[OK]

 

More details to be followed up in my TechNet article: Performance Issue: Too many other files are currently in use by 16-bit programs

0 thoughts on “Fix: Issue: Too many other files are currently in use by 16-bit programs.

  1. Hi! When attempting to launch U_AVA_Setup.exe nothing happens. When I log off, I get the “Too many other files” error. When I kill consent.exe, I also get the “Incorrect function” error. This stabilizes the environment, but I still can’t execute the program. Is it possible?

    Thanks

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