How To Fix DMC_RT_MSG121 - File &1 is locked. Processing not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DMC_RT_MSG - DMC: Runtime Object Messages

• Message number: 121

• Message text: File &1 is locked. Processing not possible

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DMC_RT_MSG121 - File &1 is locked. Processing not possible ?

  The SAP error message DMC_RT_MSG121 indicates that a specific file (denoted as &1) is locked, which prevents further processing. This error typically occurs in the context of data management and data transfer processes, such as Data Migration Cockpit (DMC) or other data-related transactions.
  Cause:
  
  
  File Locking: The file may be locked by another process or user. This can happen if:
  
  Another user or process is currently accessing or modifying the file.
  The file was not properly released after a previous operation.
  There are system-level locks due to ongoing transactions or background jobs.
  
  
  
  Permissions Issues: The user or process attempting to access the file may not have the necessary permissions to unlock or modify it.
  
  
  System Errors: There may be underlying system issues or bugs that are causing the file to remain locked.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Lock:
  
  Use transaction codes like SM12 (to check for locks) or SM21 (to check system logs) to identify which user or process is holding the lock on the file.
  If you have access, you can also check the operating system level for file locks.
  
  
  
  Release the Lock:
  
  If you identify the user or process that is holding the lock, you can ask them to release it.
  If necessary, you can manually delete the lock entry in SM12 (be cautious with this approach, as it may disrupt other users).
  
  
  
  Check Permissions:
  
  Ensure that the user or process has the necessary permissions to access the file. This may involve checking user roles and authorizations.
  
  
  
  Retry the Operation:
  
  After the lock has been released, retry the operation that caused the error.
  
  
  
  System Restart:
  
  In some cases, a system restart may be required to clear persistent locks, especially if they are caused by system-level issues.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or process you are working with for any additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the error message. You can search for the error message or related keywords in the SAP Support Portal.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes like SM12, SM21, and DMC related transactions for data management.
  User Roles: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles assigned to perform data migration or processing tasks.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.