How To Fix 42217 - Maximum depth of structure include reached (recursive includes?)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 42 - Information Workbench

• Message number: 217

• Message text: Maximum depth of structure include reached (recursive includes?)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 42217 - Maximum depth of structure include reached (recursive includes?) ?

  The SAP error message 42217, "Maximum depth of structure include reached (recursive includes?)", typically occurs when there is a recursive inclusion of structures in ABAP programs or data dictionary objects. This means that a structure is including itself directly or indirectly through other structures, leading to an infinite loop in the inclusion process.
  Cause:
  
  
  Recursive Includes: The most common cause is that a structure is defined in such a way that it includes itself either directly or through other structures. This can happen if:
  
  Structure A includes Structure B, and Structure B includes Structure A.
  There is a chain of includes that eventually leads back to the original structure.
  
  
  
  Excessive Nesting: Even if there is no direct recursion, having too many levels of nested includes can also lead to this error if the maximum depth is exceeded.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Review Structure Definitions: Check the definitions of the structures involved. Look for any direct or indirect recursive includes. You can do this by:
  
  Opening the data dictionary (SE11) and examining the structure definitions.
  Checking the "Includes" tab to see which structures are included.
  
  
  
  Refactor Structures: If you find recursive includes, you will need to refactor your structures to eliminate the recursion. This may involve:
  
  Redesigning the data model to avoid circular references.
  Creating separate structures for shared components instead of including them directly.
  
  
  
  Limit Nesting: If the nesting is excessive but not recursive, consider simplifying the structure definitions to reduce the depth of includes.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, test the program or data dictionary object to ensure that the error is resolved and that the functionality remains intact.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Maximum Depth: The maximum depth of structure includes is defined by SAP and is typically set to a specific limit (e.g., 99 levels). This limit is in place to prevent performance issues and excessive memory usage.
  ABAP Development Guidelines: Following best practices in ABAP development can help avoid such issues. This includes keeping structures simple and avoiding deep nesting.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation and notes for any specific guidelines or updates related to structure definitions and includes.
  
  If you continue to face issues after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with an experienced ABAP developer for further assistance.