How To Fix BRAIN823 - Authorization field & still being used in authorization objects

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BRAIN -

• Message number: 823

• Message text: Authorization field & still being used in authorization objects

What causes this issue?

You have attempted to delete an authorization field that is still in
use. This happens, for example, if you indicate the characteristic as
'Not authorization relevant' in the maintenance of the InfoObjects.

System Response

The action was terminated and the authorization is just as active as it
was before.

How to fix this error?

To be able to delete an authorization field it must no longer appear in
authorization objects. As authorization objects themselves are used in
authorizations and user profiles, changes must also be made in these.
Proceed as follows:
Determine those authorization objects that use the authorization field.
You use the transaction 'Maintenance of the authorization objects'
(RSSM) for this. On the initial screen do not select any objects and hit
the pushbutton 'Auth.fields hierarchy'. You will then get a tree display
of all authorization fields as well as the used authorization objects,
authorizations and profiles. By opening a subtree in this graphical
display the mutual dependencies can be recognized.

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

Of course you can also determine the individual dependencies using the
corresponding maintenance transactions: All authorizations for
authorization objects with the transaction SU03 and user profiles with
transaction SU02.
Delete the dependent authorizations in the user profiles with the
transaction SU02.
Delete the dependent authorizations with transaction SU03.
Delete the dependent authorization objects with transaction RSSM.
You can now delete the authorization fields or switch the InfoObject to
'non-authorization-relevant'.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BRAIN823 - Authorization field & still being used in authorization objects ?

  The SAP error message BRAIN823 indicates that an authorization field is still being used in authorization objects, which can lead to issues with user access and security. This message typically arises during the process of modifying or deleting authorization fields in the SAP system.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  An attempt is made to delete or modify an authorization field that is still referenced in one or more authorization objects.
  The system enforces integrity checks to ensure that authorization fields are not removed while they are still in use, as this could lead to inconsistencies in user authorizations.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the BRAIN823 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify the Authorization Objects:
  
  Use transaction code SU21 (Authorization Object Maintenance) to find out which authorization objects are using the specific authorization field.
  You can also use transaction SE11 (Data Dictionary) to search for the authorization field in the relevant tables.
  
  
  
  Review Usage:
  
  Check the usage of the authorization objects that reference the field. This may involve reviewing roles and profiles that include these authorization objects.
  
  
  
  Modify or Remove References:
  
  If you need to modify or delete the authorization field, you must first remove it from all authorization objects that reference it. This may involve:
  
  Adjusting roles in transaction PFCG (Role Maintenance).
  Updating profiles that include the authorization objects.
  
  
  
  
  
  Test Changes:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the roles and authorizations to ensure that users still have the appropriate access and that the changes do not negatively impact system functionality.
  
  
  
  Delete or Modify the Authorization Field:
  
  Once all references to the authorization field have been removed, you can proceed to delete or modify the field as needed.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Authorization Objects: These are used in SAP to control access to various transactions and data. Each object can contain multiple fields that define the specific authorizations required.
  Roles and Profiles: Roles are collections of authorization objects that define what users can do in the system. Profiles are generated from roles and are assigned to users.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SU21: For managing authorization objects.
  PFCG: For role maintenance.
  SE11: For data dictionary operations.
  
  
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Always back up your roles and profiles before making changes to authorization fields.
  Document any changes made to authorization objects and fields for future reference.
  Regularly review and audit authorization objects and fields to ensure compliance with security policies.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BRAIN823 error and maintain the integrity of your SAP authorization framework.