How To Fix BA018 - Select an active archive file key

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BA - Data Archiving

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Select an active archive file key

What causes this issue?

You have not selected any archive files

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?

Select at least one archive file.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BA018 - Select an active archive file key ?

  The SAP error message BA018, which states "Select an active archive file key," typically occurs in the context of archiving and data management within SAP systems. This error indicates that the system is unable to find an active archive file key that is required for processing a specific request or operation.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Archive File Key: The archive file key you are trying to access may not be active or may not exist in the system.
  Incorrect Configuration: The archiving object may not be properly configured, or the archive file may not have been created or activated correctly.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the archive files.
  Data Deletion: The archive file may have been deleted or moved, making it unavailable for the operation.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Archive File Keys:
  
  Go to transaction code SARA (Archive Administration) and check the status of the archive files related to the specific archiving object.
  Ensure that the archive file you are trying to access is listed as active.
  
  
  
  Recreate Archive:
  
  If the archive file is missing or inactive, you may need to recreate the archive for the relevant object. This can be done by running the archiving process again.
  
  
  
  Verify Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings for the archiving object in transaction SARA. Ensure that all settings are correct and that the archiving process has been properly defined.
  
  
  
  User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user encountering the error has the necessary authorizations to access the archive files. This may involve checking roles and permissions in transaction PFCG.
  
  
  
  Consult Logs:
  
  Review the application logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Archiving Objects: Each archiving object in SAP has specific settings and requirements. Familiarize yourself with the archiving object related to the error.
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to archiving include:
  
  SARA: Archive Administration
  SARI: Archive Information System
  SAD1: Archive Deletion
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for detailed information on archiving processes and best practices.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation.