ChatGPT operates through servers, just like any other online service. However, during times of high traffic, these servers can become overwhelmed and result in an “at capacity” error. I think this is certainly due to a large number of users and the inability of the servers to process all requests.
The chatbot, developed by the San Francisco-based company OpenAI, garnered over 1 million users within its first week of public testing on November 30, 2022. OpenAI is also responsible for creating innovative software such as GPT-3 and DALL-E2.
Screenshots of ChatGPT have gone viral on social media, particularly on Twitter, with users finding the chatbot both amazing and unsettling.
UBS reports that ChatGPT averages 13 million unique visitors daily, creating a significant impact on the internet, that’s why you’re seeing more and more “ChatGPT Is at Capacity Right Now” errors nowadays.
How to fix the error “ChatGPT is at capacity right now”?
According to my personal experience, the best solution for fixing this error is to alter your IP address to a nation with lower usage. You can make a rough estimate based on factors such as time zone and the size of the country first and then check the specific information available regarding the ChatGPT capacity for countries globally through https://status.openai.com/. But still, you need to change your IP address first to see other countries’ capacity.
For instance, I currently reside in Hong Kong. If I encounter the “at capacity” error during the day, I typically switch my IP to a country where it is midnight in their time zone, allowing me to log in to my account smoothly.
If the country you tried doesn’t work, just keep trying different countries, it will work!
How to change my IP address?
One simple method to alter an IP address, which is also a way that I have been using, is by utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The VPN creates a secure tunnel for transmitting and receiving data, bypassing the conventional path for internet traffic which goes directly to your ISP.
By bypassing the ISP servers, your online activity appears as though it is being sent and received from a server located elsewhere. This masks your IP address from websites you visit and provides anonymity for your internet browsing by encrypting your connection.
VPNs can be obtained for a nominal monthly charge, with some options being offered for free. Utilizing a VPN is a way to conceal your IP address instead of having to change it. The most straightforward way to use a VPN is to download the software and install it on your device.
Best VPN for using ChatGPT in China
| Number of US server cities | 16 |
| Number of servers | 3,000+ |
| Server locations | 160 |
| Maximum devices supported | 5 |
In my opinion, ExpressVPN is the best all-around VPN for using ChatGPT in China because it offers the best of everything from speed and security to ease of use, compatibility, and customer service.
It’s particularly well suited for use in China as it has a whopping 3,000+ servers spread across 160 locations and 94 countries.
As well as getting reliable, above-average speeds (especially when you switch on its proprietary Lightway protocol), with smart selection wizards and 24/7 live chat assistance, that goes for anybody outside the country, too.
ExpressVPN will let you be able to register an OpenAI account and freely use the ChatGPT when you’re in China (I know because I’ve tried). You’re secure too with Bitcoin payment, P2P support, industrial-level encryption, a kill switch, DNS protection, and a clear no-logging policy.
The only limitation of ExpressVPN is that its clients are limited to five simultaneous connections, which is fewer compared to other VPN services. However, if you don’t need to connect more than five devices, then ExpressVPN is a nearly perfect choice.
Other ways might help fix the “ChatGPT is at capacity right now” error
If the error persists even after waiting for some time, I think it’s possible that the issue is caused by a technical problem. In that case, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Clear your browser cache and cookies.
- Try accessing the system using a different browser or device.
- Check for any scheduled maintenance or downtime for the system.
- Contact the support team for the system and report the issue.
What is the maximum size of GPT?
The maximum size of GPT (Generative Pretrained Transformer) models is not a fixed number and can vary depending on the specific architecture and the available computing resources. Currently, the largest publicly available GPT models are GPT-3, which has over 175 billion parameters, and GPT-3 is one of the largest language models ever created.
However, it’s worth noting that the size of a language model is not the only factor that determines its performance. Other factors, such as the quality and diversity of the training data, the model architecture, and the presence of fine-tuning and other techniques also play a crucial role in the model’s ability to perform well on specific tasks.
The Reddit discussions center around the topic of ChatGPT in China
The Reddit discussions revolve around accessing ChatGPT in China, with users sharing information about building ChatGPT solutions that are free to use and do not require a VPN or phone number for registration. Some users discuss using VPNs like Astrill and Veee VPN to access ChatGPT, while others inquire about using Outline VPN.
There are also feedback requests and discussions about the availability and challenges of using ChatGPT in different regions of China, including Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Users exchange information about their experiences and seek assistance in accessing ChatGPT while in China.
FAQ: About ChatGPT capacity
It’s because their servers are now too busy to handle your request. This occurs when the chatbot servers are under an unusually heavy load.
Below is a curated list of four options for ChatGPT alternatives
– ChatSonic
– Jasper
– Google Bard
– Replika
1. Use a VPN to change your IP address from China to other countries where OpenAI’s services are available.
2. Change your time zone to Pacific Time (US & Canada).
3. Use the Incognito mode to open the OpenAI website and start the registration process.
4. Now you need an SMS-activate tool to get a virtual phone number for receiving the security code.
You can learn more from my other blog post “How to Use ChatGPT in China“.
