# Usage limits for GitHub Copilot

Learn about GitHub Copilot usage limits and what to do if you hit a limit.

Rate limiting is a mechanism used to control the number of requests a user or application can make in a given time period. GitHub uses rate limits to ensure everyone has fair access to GitHub Copilot and to protect against abuse.

## Why does GitHub use rate limits?

GitHub enforces rate limits for several reasons.

* **Capacity:** There is a limited amount of computing power available to serve all Copilot users. Rate limiting helps prevent the system from being overloaded.
* **High usage:** Popular features and models may receive bursts of requests. Rate limits ensure no single user or group can monopolize these resources.
* **Fairness:** Rate limits ensure that all users have equitable access to Copilot.
* **Abuse mitigation:** Without rate limits, malicious actors could exploit Copilot, leading to degraded service for everyone or even denial of service.

## What to do if you hit a limit

If you receive a usage limit error when using Copilot, you should:

* **Wait and try again.** Rate limits are temporary. Often, waiting a short period and trying again resolves the issue.
* **Check your usage.** If you’re making frequent or automated requests (for example, rapid-fire completions or large-scale usage), consider adjusting your usage pattern.
* **Upgrade your plan.** If you are on an individual Copilot plan, upgrading your plan will allow for additional usage.
* **Contact Support.** If you repeatedly hit usage limits and believe it’s impacting legitimate use, contact [GitHub Support](https://support.github.com) for assistance.