How To Fix CHANGE_RETENTION008 - Error while changing the expiration date of the archive file &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CHANGE_RETENTION - Change Expiration Date of Archiving Sessions

• Message number: 008

• Message text: Error while changing the expiration date of the archive file &1

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 CHANGE_RETENTION008 - Error while changing the expiration date of the archive file &1 ?

  The SAP error message CHANGE_RETENTION008 typically occurs when there is an issue with changing the expiration date of an archive file in the SAP system. This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause and potential solutions is essential for resolving the issue.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Archive File: The archive file specified may not exist or may not be accessible.
  Insufficient Authorizations: The user attempting to change the expiration date may not have the necessary authorizations to perform this action.
  System Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the Archive Management settings that prevent changes to the expiration date.
  File Locking: The archive file might be locked by another process or user, preventing modifications.
  Incorrect Parameters: The parameters provided for changing the expiration date may be incorrect or not in the expected format.
  
  Solution:
  
  Verify Archive File: Check if the archive file specified in the error message exists and is accessible. You can do this by navigating to the archive directory and confirming the file's presence.
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to change the expiration date of archive files. This may involve checking roles and permissions in the SAP system.
  Review Configuration: Look into the Archive Management configuration settings to ensure they are correctly set up. This may involve checking the settings in transaction code SARA (Archive Administration).
  Release Locks: If the file is locked, identify the process or user that has locked it and release the lock if possible. You can use transaction SM12 to check for locks.
  Correct Parameters: Double-check the parameters you are using to change the expiration date. Ensure they are in the correct format and valid for the operation you are trying to perform.
  Consult Logs: Review the application logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or information that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SARA: Archive Administration
  SLG1: Application Log
  SM12: Display and Delete Locks
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal for documentation on Archive Management and related functionalities.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to contact SAP support for further assistance, providing them with the error details and any steps you have already taken.