seniorT-SQL

What is SQL Server resource semaphore and memory grant starvation?

Updated May 17, 2026

Short answer

Resource semaphore controls memory grant allocation and can cause starvation under pressure.

Deep explanation

When queries request memory for sorts or hashes, they must acquire a memory grant via resource semaphore. If memory is insufficient, queries wait in a queue, leading to RESOURCE_SEMAPHORE waits. Severe contention causes query starvation and throughput collapse.

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