How To Fix AFX_GLOBAL163 - Program &1 can only run as a background job

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AFX_GLOBAL - Global Messages (Usable in All AFX Objects)

• Message number: 163

• Message text: Program &1 can only run as a background job

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AFX_GLOBAL163 - Program &1 can only run as a background job ?

  The SAP error message AFX_GLOBAL163 indicates that a specific program (denoted as &1 in the message) can only be executed as a background job. This typically occurs when the program is designed to perform tasks that require more resources or time than what is allowed for a dialog (foreground) session. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, solution, and related information for this error:
  Cause:
  
  Program Design: The program is designed to run in the background due to its resource-intensive nature or because it processes large volumes of data.
  Transaction Restrictions: Some programs are restricted to background execution to prevent long-running processes from blocking user interactions in the SAP GUI.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations in the SAP system may enforce that specific programs can only be executed in the background.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Run as Background Job:
  
  To resolve this error, you need to execute the program as a background job. You can do this by:
  
  Using transaction code SM36 to create a background job.
  Enter the program name in the job definition and schedule it accordingly.
  Monitor the job execution using transaction code SM37.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Program Documentation:
  
  Review the documentation or comments in the program code to understand its intended execution context and any specific parameters that may need to be set when running it in the background.
  
  
  
  Consult with Basis Team:
  
  If you are unsure about how to set up the background job or if you encounter further issues, consult with your SAP Basis team for assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM36: Create Background Job
  SM37: Monitor Background Jobs
  SE38: Execute Program (for testing in foreground, but will trigger the error if not allowed)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional context or updates regarding the specific program or error message.
  
  
  Performance Considerations: Running resource-intensive programs in the background can help improve system performance and user experience by freeing up dialog sessions for other users.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AFX_GLOBAL163 error and successfully execute the program as intended.