How To Fix BT605 - Failed to start external program

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BT - Background processing messages

• Message number: 605

• Message text: Failed to start external program

What causes this issue?

When the system attempted to start an external program, an error
occurred that prevented the program from being started.

System Response

The external program was not started.

How to fix this error?

An earlier message (especially in background job logs) will probably
contain a more precise description of the error.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BT605 - Failed to start external program ?

  The SAP error message BT605, which indicates "Failed to start external program," typically occurs when the SAP system is unable to execute an external program or script that it is configured to run. This can happen for various reasons, and understanding the cause is crucial for finding a solution. Here are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Path: The path to the external program may be incorrect or the program may not exist in the specified location.
  Permissions Issues: The user under which the SAP system is running may not have the necessary permissions to execute the external program.
  Environment Variables: Required environment variables may not be set correctly, preventing the program from starting.
  Missing Dependencies: The external program may depend on other libraries or programs that are not installed or accessible.
  Configuration Issues: The configuration settings in SAP for the external program may be incorrect.
  Resource Limitations: The system may be running low on resources (e.g., memory, CPU) that are required to start the external program.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Verify the Path: Check the configuration in SAP to ensure that the path to the external program is correct. You can do this in transaction code SM69 (External Commands).
  Check Permissions: Ensure that the user account running the SAP instance has the necessary permissions to execute the external program. This may involve checking file system permissions or user group memberships.
  Set Environment Variables: Make sure that any required environment variables are set correctly in the operating system where SAP is running.
  Install Dependencies: If the external program requires additional libraries or dependencies, ensure they are installed and accessible.
  Review Configuration: Double-check the configuration settings in SAP related to the external program. This includes parameters in transaction SM69 and any related settings.
  Monitor System Resources: Use system monitoring tools to check for resource limitations. If the system is low on resources, consider optimizing or upgrading the hardware.
  Check Logs: Review the SAP application logs (transaction SM21) and the operating system logs for any additional error messages that may provide more context about the failure.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for the specific external program you are trying to run, as it may have specific requirements or configurations.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums or discussion groups, as other users may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By systematically checking these areas, you should be able to identify the cause of the BT605 error and implement an appropriate solution.