How To Fix E2172 - Table is not buffered (buffering type must be maintained)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: E2 - DE Data Dictionary

• Message number: 172

• Message text: Table is not buffered (buffering type must be maintained)

What causes this issue?

You permitted buffering for this table. Really, however, a
table is only buffered if the <DS:DE.PUFFERUNG>buffering type</>
(100 %, partial or generic) for the table is maintained in the
technical settings.

System Response

The table is not buffered because the buffering type for this table is
not set.

How to fix this error?

In order to activate buffering for a table, select <LS> Goto-> technical
settings </> after activating the table settings for the maintenance of
which you permitted buffering. This brings you to the maintenance
screen for the technical settings. Define the buffering type there and
activate the technical settings.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message E2172 - Table is not buffered (buffering type must be maintained) ?

  The SAP error message E2172, which states "Table is not buffered (buffering type must be maintained)," typically occurs when there is an attempt to access a database table that is not set up for buffering in the SAP system. Buffering is a performance optimization technique that allows frequently accessed data to be stored in memory, reducing the need for repeated database access.
  Cause:
  
  Table Configuration: The table in question is not configured for buffering. In SAP, tables can be set to different buffering types (e.g., buffered, not buffered, or single record buffered). If a table is not buffered, it cannot be accessed in a way that expects it to be in memory.
  Access Method: The program or transaction trying to access the table may be using a method that requires the table to be buffered.
  Data Model Changes: Changes in the data model or configuration might have led to the table being unbuffered.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Table Buffering Settings:
  
  Go to transaction SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Enter the name of the table that is causing the error.
  Check the buffering settings in the table definition. If the table should be buffered, you can change the buffering type to "Buffered" or "Single Record Buffered" as appropriate.
  
  
  
  Adjust Program Logic:
  
  If the table is not meant to be buffered, review the program logic that accesses the table. Ensure that it does not rely on buffering.
  Modify the access method to use standard database access instead of expecting buffered access.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific table and its intended use. There may be specific recommendations or best practices for handling the table.
  
  
  
  Transport Changes:
  
  If changes are made to the buffering settings, ensure that these changes are transported to the relevant environments (e.g., from development to production).
  
  
  
  Performance Considerations:
  
  If you decide to enable buffering, consider the implications on performance and data consistency. Buffered tables can lead to stale data if not managed properly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Buffering Types: Understand the different types of buffering available in SAP:
  
  Fully Buffered: All records are stored in the buffer.
  Single Record Buffered: Only individual records are buffered.
  Not Buffered: No records are buffered, and all accesses go directly to the database.
  
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SE11: Data Dictionary to check and modify table definitions.
  SE14: Database Utility to manage database objects, including buffering settings.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues or provide guidance on the table in question.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the E2172 error and ensure that your SAP system operates smoothly.