BIOS & startup · medium

How to fixROM-SPACE-EXHAUSTED

Insufficient space in Option ROM BIOS

What this error means

ROM-SPACE-EXHAUSTED shows up as a medium-severity hardware BIOS/UEFI fault. The board has too many associated devices with custom ROMs (eg RAID controllers, multiple GPUs) and has run out of space to initialize them (POST). Another common trigger is active Legacy and CSM boot modes. Follow the steps below to fix it.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Turn off CSM (Compatibility Support Module) and go to pure UEFI

Turn off CSM (Compatibility Support Module) and go to pure UEFI.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Disable unused integrated components (COM ports, internal SATA RAID)

Disable unused integrated components (COM ports, internal SATA RAID).

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Disconnect unnecessary expansion cards

Disconnect unnecessary expansion cards.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Too many PCIe expansion cards plugged in
  • Old board architecture with small ROM for BIOS
  • Active Legacy and CSM boot modes