How To Fix /CFG/ACTIVATION004 - Background process could not be started (resource error)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /CFG/ACTIVATION -

• Message number: 004

• Message text: Background process could not be started (resource error)

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 /CFG/ACTIVATION004 - Background process could not be started (resource error) ?

  The SAP error message /CFG/ACTIVATION004 Background process could not be started (resource error) typically indicates that the system is unable to start a background process due to resource constraints. This can happen for various reasons, including insufficient memory, CPU resources, or configuration issues.
  Causes:
  
  Insufficient System Resources: The server may not have enough memory or CPU resources available to start the background process.
  Configuration Issues: There may be misconfigurations in the SAP system settings that limit the number of background processes that can be started.
  System Load: High system load or too many background jobs running simultaneously can lead to resource contention.
  Database Locks: If the database is locked or busy, it may prevent the background process from starting.
  User Authorizations: The user trying to start the background job may not have the necessary authorizations.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check System Resources:
  
  Monitor the system's memory and CPU usage using tools like SAP's transaction ST06 or OS-level monitoring tools.
  If resources are low, consider increasing the server's memory or CPU capacity.
  
  
  
  Review Background Job Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings for background processing in transaction SM37 or SM36.
  Ensure that the number of background processes configured in the instance profile is sufficient. You can check this in the instance profile parameters (e.g., rdisp/wp_no_btc).
  
  
  
  Reduce Load:
  
  If the system is under heavy load, try to reduce the number of concurrent background jobs or schedule them during off-peak hours.
  
  
  
  Check for Database Issues:
  
  Use transaction DB02 to check for database locks or performance issues.
  Ensure that the database is running optimally and that there are no locks preventing the background job from starting.
  
  
  
  User Authorizations:
  
  Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to start background jobs. Check the user roles and profiles.
  
  
  
  Restart the Instance:
  
  If the issue persists, consider restarting the SAP instance to clear any temporary resource locks or issues.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM37: Monitor background jobs.
  SM36: Define background jobs.
  ST06: Monitor system performance.
  DB02: Database performance monitoring.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to background processing errors. You can search for relevant notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  
  System Logs: Review the system logs (transaction SM21) for any additional error messages or warnings that could provide more context about the issue.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or consult SAP support for further assistance.