How To Fix GX018 - Specify an archive type ('deleted/not deleted')

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GX - Archiving/Reorganization

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Specify an archive type ('deleted/not deleted')

What causes this issue?

No archive type was specified with which you can search for archives
with existing index information.
You can choose between archives whose data was deleted from the
database and its counterpart.

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?

Change your entry.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GX018 - Specify an archive type ('deleted/not deleted') ?

  The SAP error message GX018, which states "Specify an archive type ('deleted/not deleted')", typically occurs when you are trying to execute an archiving process without specifying whether you want to archive deleted or not deleted objects. This error is common in the context of data archiving in SAP systems, particularly when using transaction codes related to archiving.
  Cause:
  The error arises because the system requires you to specify the type of data you want to archive. The two options are:
  
  Deleted: This refers to data that has been marked for deletion and is no longer needed in the active database.
  Not Deleted: This refers to data that is still active and has not been marked for deletion.
  
  If you do not specify one of these options, the system cannot proceed with the archiving process, leading to the GX018 error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the GX018 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Access the Archiving Transaction: Go to the relevant transaction code where you encountered the error (e.g., SARA for archiving).
  
  
  Specify Archive Type: Look for a field or option that allows you to specify the archive type. You should see options for "Deleted" and "Not Deleted". Select the appropriate option based on your archiving needs.
  
  
  Execute the Process: After specifying the archive type, proceed with the archiving process again. The error should no longer occur if the type is correctly specified.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Archiving in SAP: Archiving is a process used to remove data from the active database and store it in a separate archive for long-term retention. This helps in managing database size and improving system performance.
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to archiving include:
  
  SARA: Archive Administration
  SARI: Archive Information System
  SARE: Archive Object Management
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on archiving processes and best practices.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider checking the following:
  
  User authorizations: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to perform archiving.
  System logs: Review system logs for any additional error messages that may provide more context.
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to archiving in your version of SAP.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the GX018 error and successfully perform your archiving tasks.