How To Fix E2194 - Inherited foreign key cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: E2 - DE Data Dictionary

• Message number: 194

• Message text: Inherited foreign key cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

The foreign key is defined for a field of an include. The 'Inherited
from include' flag is set for the foreign key. The system copies the
definition of the foreign key from the include. Since the foreign key
is created in the include, it must also exist in the including table or
structure and is therefore not deleted.

System Response

The foreign key cannot be deleted.

How to fix this error?

You can only delete the foreign key once you have canceled the
'Inherited from include' flag.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message E2194 - Inherited foreign key cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message E2194, "Inherited foreign key cannot be deleted," typically occurs when you attempt to delete a foreign key relationship that is inherited from a parent table or structure. This situation arises in the context of database table definitions, particularly when working with ABAP Dictionary (SE11) or similar tools.
  Cause:
  
  Inherited Foreign Key: The foreign key you are trying to delete is not defined directly in the table you are working on but is inherited from a parent table. Inherited foreign keys are part of the table's structure and cannot be removed without addressing the parent table's definition.
  Referential Integrity: SAP enforces referential integrity, meaning that if a foreign key is being used to maintain relationships between tables, it cannot be deleted without ensuring that the integrity of the data is maintained.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Parent Table: Identify the parent table from which the foreign key is inherited. You can do this by checking the table definition in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11).
  Modify Parent Table: If you need to remove the foreign key, you will have to modify the parent table's definition to remove the foreign key relationship there. This may involve:
  
  Deleting the foreign key from the parent table.
  Ensuring that no other tables depend on this foreign key.
  
  
  Adjust Dependent Objects: If there are dependent objects (like views, programs, or other database objects) that rely on this foreign key, you may need to adjust or delete them as well.
  Transport Requests: If you are working in a development environment, ensure that any changes are included in a transport request for proper migration to other environments (like QA or Production).
  
  Related Information:
  
  Referential Integrity: Understand the concept of referential integrity in database design, as it is crucial for maintaining consistent and valid data across related tables.
  ABAP Dictionary: Familiarize yourself with the ABAP Dictionary (transaction SE11) to manage database objects effectively.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed guidance on managing foreign keys and table relationships.
  Testing: After making changes, thoroughly test the application to ensure that the removal of the foreign key does not lead to data inconsistencies or application errors.
  
  If you continue to face issues or if the foreign key is critical for your application, consider consulting with a database administrator or an SAP expert for further assistance.