How To Fix AH163 - Historical data will be lost

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AH - IS-U billing (master data)

• Message number: 163

• Message text: Historical data will be lost

What causes this issue?

The historical data already entered will be deleted because of a change
in discount type or reference base.

System Response

This concerns a system warning.

How to fix this error?

The warning can be ignored, or the transaction can be canceled.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AH163 - Historical data will be lost ?

  The SAP error message AH163, which states "Historical data will be lost," typically occurs in the context of data archiving or data management processes within SAP systems. This message indicates that certain historical data may be deleted or become inaccessible due to the actions being performed, such as data archiving or deletion processes.
  Cause:
  
  Data Archiving: When archiving data, the system may remove historical records from the database to optimize performance and storage. If the archiving process is not configured correctly, it may lead to the loss of important historical data.
  Deletion of Records: If records are being deleted without proper consideration of dependencies or historical significance, this can trigger the AH163 message.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect settings in the data archiving configuration can lead to unintended data loss.
  User Actions: Users may inadvertently initiate processes that lead to the loss of historical data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Archiving Settings: Check the configuration settings for data archiving in the SAP system. Ensure that the archiving process is set up correctly and that it includes the necessary data retention policies.
  Backup Data: Before performing any archiving or deletion processes, ensure that a complete backup of the data is taken. This allows for recovery in case of unintended data loss.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation regarding data archiving and deletion processes to understand the implications of these actions.
  Test in Development Environment: If possible, test the archiving or deletion processes in a development or test environment before applying them in production to identify potential issues.
  User Training: Ensure that users involved in data management are trained on the implications of archiving and deletion processes to prevent accidental data loss.
  Consult SAP Support: If the issue persists or if there are uncertainties regarding the archiving process, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Data Retention Policies: Organizations should establish clear data retention policies that define how long historical data should be kept and under what circumstances it can be archived or deleted.
  Archiving Objects: Familiarize yourself with the specific archiving objects relevant to your SAP modules, as each may have different requirements and implications for historical data.
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to archiving include SARA (Archive Administration) and SARI (Archive Information System), which can be used to manage and monitor archiving processes.
  
  By addressing the causes and implementing the solutions outlined above, you can mitigate the risk of losing important historical data in your SAP system.