How To Fix AD258 - Not saved. Generic buffering requires a key field number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 258

• Message text: Not saved. Generic buffering requires a key field number

What causes this issue?

During saving, a message was displayed indicating the number of key
fields to be entered. These fields are required for generic buffering.
Since you did not enter these in the pop-up window provided, the data
was not saved.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Specify a number of key fields. To do this, select save again. The
pop-up window will now be displayed again. Alternatively, you can
select pushbutton <PF>Change key field number</> directly and enter a
number there.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD258 - Not saved. Generic buffering requires a key field number ?

  The SAP error message AD258 ("Not saved. Generic buffering requires a key field number") typically occurs when there is an issue related to the buffering of data in the SAP system. This error is often associated with the use of generic buffering for database tables, where the system expects a key field number to be defined but it is missing or incorrectly configured.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Key Field: The table or view you are trying to access may not have a defined key field number, which is necessary for generic buffering.
  Incorrect Buffering Settings: The buffering settings for the table may not be properly configured in the Data Dictionary (SE11).
  Data Dictionary Issues: There may be inconsistencies or issues in the Data Dictionary that prevent the system from recognizing the key fields.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Table Definition:
  
  Go to transaction SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Enter the name of the table that is causing the error and check its definition.
  Ensure that the key fields are correctly defined and that there is at least one key field.
  
  
  
  Review Buffering Settings:
  
  In SE11, check the buffering settings for the table.
  Ensure that the "Buffering" option is set correctly. If generic buffering is enabled, make sure that a key field number is specified.
  
  
  
  Adjust Buffering Type:
  
  If generic buffering is not necessary for your use case, consider changing the buffering type to "No buffering" or "Single record buffering" as appropriate.
  
  
  
  Transport Requests:
  
  If changes were made to the table or its buffering settings, ensure that these changes are included in a transport request and properly transported to the relevant systems (e.g., from development to quality assurance).
  
  
  
  Check for Notes and Patches:
  
  Look for any SAP Notes or patches that may address this specific error. Sometimes, SAP releases updates that fix known issues.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for more information on buffering and key fields.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Buffering in SAP: Buffering is a performance optimization technique that allows frequently accessed data to be stored in memory, reducing database access time.
  Key Fields: Key fields are essential for uniquely identifying records in a database table. They are crucial for operations like buffering, indexing, and searching.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE14 (Database Utility), and SE78 (SAP ArchiveLink) for managing database objects and settings.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.