2026 Memory and Storage Supply Constraints: What They Mean for Your Business

The start of 2026 posed a new challenge for the tech industry: a heightened demand for AI infrastructure that resulted in a shortage of DRAM and NAND memory.  Since AI infrastructure (i.e., data centers) consumes vastly more memory than consumer-grade products, certain manufacturers are currently prioritizing production of memory for enterprise-grade DRAM/SSD products and data-center-focused technologies to meet the influx of demand.

However, it is important to note that these DRAM and NAND memory shortages are showing up less as outright shortages and are being experienced as longer lead times, configuration limitations and increased delivery uncertainty across the market.

It’s important to keep in mind that this is not a short disruption cycle. It is a multi-year realignment driven by AI demand that can take time to return to normal. Key manufacturers will have to expand their production facilities and hire additional staff, which could take months or longer. If heightened demand for AI infrastructure continues to put strain on memory supply, computer prices could continue to rise.

While there will be a delay in production across many different products, some of the most impacted areas will be PCs, servers and storage devices.  This is why it is crucial for organizations not to delay their technology upgrade. Postponing increases cost and risk. Organizations that act sooner will have greater access to inventory, better configuration options and more predictable deployment timelines, while those that wait may expect longer lead times and continued price pressure.

To mitigate disruption caused by ongoing memory supply constraints, organizations must take a more proactive, strategic approach to device planning. This includes forecasting demand earlier, building flexibility into hardware configurations and aligning refresh timelines with market realities. CDW actively monitors original equipment manufacturer (OEM) allocations, component availability and pricing trends across the market, enabling our customers to make informed decisions before constraints affect their business.

If you are considering refreshing your legacy COVID-era devices to newer AI-powered technology, but are hesitant due to the memory shortage, it is beneficial to know that now is still a great time to upgrade.  

CDW has the track record, infrastructure and long-term expertise to help organizations of all sizes stay proactive during these longer lead times and as computer prices continue to increase. Our specialized programs, such as our buy-and-hold capabilities and our ability to stock inventory, can help companies mitigate negative business impacts, including cost risk, disrupted IT initiatives and unpredictable delivery timelines.

Our experts are here for you. They understand the industry and strive to understand our customers' unique needs, helping you build a plan that provides a level of certainty you wouldn’t otherwise have.