How To Fix >5872 - Field &1 cannot be selected because switch &2 is not active

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >5 -

• Message number: 872

• Message text: Field &1 cannot be selected because switch &2 is not active

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message >5872 - Field &1 cannot be selected because switch &2 is not active ?

  The SAP error message "5872 Field &1 cannot be selected because switch &2 is not active" typically indicates that a specific field in a report or transaction cannot be used because a related configuration switch (or feature) is not enabled in the system. This is often related to the configuration of the SAP system, particularly in the context of new functionalities or enhancements that are controlled by switches.
  Cause:
  
  Inactive Switch: The switch (&2) that controls the availability of the field (&1) is not active in the system. This could be due to the switch not being turned on in the system configuration.
  Version Compatibility: The field may be part of a newer version of the software that requires certain switches to be activated for compatibility.
  Custom Development: If there are custom developments or enhancements, they may rely on specific switches being active.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Activate the Switch:
  
  Go to transaction code SFW5 (Switch Framework) in SAP.
  Look for the switch (&2) mentioned in the error message.
  If it is not active, you may need to activate it. Note that activating switches may require appropriate authorizations and could have implications on system behavior.
  After activating the switch, you may need to perform a system restart or refresh to see the changes.
  
  
  
  Check Documentation:
  
  Review the SAP documentation or release notes related to the switch and field to understand the implications of activating it.
  Ensure that activating the switch does not conflict with other configurations or business processes.
  
  
  
  Consult with Basis or Functional Team:
  
  If you are unsure about activating the switch or its implications, consult with your SAP Basis team or functional consultants who can provide guidance based on your specific system setup and business requirements.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After activating the switch, test the functionality to ensure that the field is now selectable and that there are no adverse effects on other processes.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SFW5: Switch Framework for managing business function sets.
  SE11: Data Dictionary to check the field definitions.
  SE80: Object Navigator for checking related objects and enhancements.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional information or patches related to the error message.
  
  
  System Version: Ensure that you are aware of the version of SAP you are using, as the availability of certain switches and fields may vary between versions.
  
  
  Testing Environment: It is advisable to first test any changes in a development or quality assurance environment before applying them to the production system.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message and enable the desired functionality in your SAP system.