How To Fix CP188 - Archiving can only be started via the menu.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CP - Task list messages: Core data

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Archiving can only be started via the menu.

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CP188 - Archiving can only be started via the menu. ?

  The SAP error message CP188, which states "Archiving can only be started via the menu," typically occurs when a user attempts to start the archiving process through a method that is not supported by the SAP system. This error is often related to the archiving of data in the context of SAP's data management processes.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Method of Initiation: The archiving process is being initiated through a transaction code or method that is not allowed. SAP requires that archiving be started from specific menu paths.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform archiving operations.
  System Configuration: The system may not be configured correctly to allow archiving through the method attempted.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Use the Correct Menu Path: Ensure that you are starting the archiving process from the correct menu path. Typically, you should navigate through the SAP Easy Access menu to find the appropriate archiving transaction.
  
  For example, you might find it under: Logistics -> Logistics Execution -> Information System -> Archiving.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform archiving. You may need to consult with your SAP security team to ensure that the user has the appropriate roles assigned.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files for the specific archiving process you are trying to execute. This can provide guidance on the correct procedures and any prerequisites.
  
  
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, check the system configuration settings related to archiving. This may involve consulting with your SAP Basis team to ensure that the archiving settings are correctly configured.
  
  
  Transaction Codes: If you are using a specific transaction code to initiate archiving, ensure that it is the correct one. For example, transaction codes like SARA (Archive Administration) are commonly used for archiving tasks.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional context.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Training and Documentation: Consider reviewing SAP training materials or documentation related to data archiving to better understand the processes and requirements.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CP188 error and successfully initiate the archiving process in SAP.