How To Fix DT537 - Number of indexes (&) allowed by DB system exceeded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DT - Table activation (incl. indexes)

• Message number: 537

• Message text: Number of indexes (&) allowed by DB system exceeded

What causes this issue?

The database system only allows a certain number of indexes to be
created per table. This number was exceeded. (Note that the primary
index must also be included in the calculation here)

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

It is not possible to define more indexes. Check whether indexes which
you do not need or whose field list is contained in other indexes are
defined.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT537 - Number of indexes (&) allowed by DB system exceeded ?

  The SAP error message DT537 indicates that the number of indexes allowed by the database system has been exceeded. This typically occurs when the number of indexes defined for a particular database table surpasses the limit set by the database management system (DBMS) being used.
  Cause:
  
  Database Limitations: Different database systems have different limits on the number of indexes that can be created for a single table. For example, some databases may allow a maximum of 32, 64, or even more indexes, depending on their configuration and version.
  Excessive Indexing: Over-indexing can occur when developers or database administrators create too many indexes for a table, often in an attempt to optimize query performance without considering the implications.
  Database Configuration: The database configuration settings may not be optimized, leading to lower limits on the number of indexes.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Indexes: Analyze the existing indexes on the table to determine which ones are necessary. Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE14 (Database Utility) to view the indexes.
  Drop Unused Indexes: If there are indexes that are not being used or are redundant, consider dropping them to free up space for new indexes.
  Consolidate Indexes: If multiple indexes are serving similar purposes, consider consolidating them into a single index that can serve multiple queries.
  Database Configuration: Check the database configuration settings to see if there are options to increase the limit on the number of indexes. This may involve consulting the database documentation or working with a database administrator.
  Optimize Queries: Instead of adding more indexes, consider optimizing the queries that are being run against the table. Sometimes, query optimization can reduce the need for additional indexes.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Database Documentation: Refer to the documentation for your specific database system (e.g., Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, etc.) to understand the limits and best practices for indexing.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific recommendations or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common issues.
  Performance Monitoring: Use performance monitoring tools to analyze query performance and index usage. This can help identify which indexes are beneficial and which are not.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DT537 error and optimize the indexing strategy for your SAP application.