How To Fix I4398 - &1 &2 is locked by user &3

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: I4 - WCM: Work Clearance Management

• Message number: 398

• Message text: &1 &2 is locked by user &3

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message I4398 - &1 &2 is locked by user &3 ?

  The SAP error message I4398 indicates that a particular object (such as a document, transaction, or record) is locked by a user, preventing other users from accessing or modifying it. The message typically follows the format: "I4398 &1 &2 is locked by user &3," where &1, &2, and &3 represent specific details about the object, the type of object, and the user who has locked it, respectively.
  Cause:
  
  User Locking: The object is currently being edited or processed by another user, which causes it to be locked.
  Session Timeout: Sometimes, a user may have left a session open, causing the lock to persist even after they are no longer actively using it.
  System Error: Occasionally, a system error or crash can leave an object in a locked state.
  Long-running Transactions: If a transaction takes too long to complete, it may hold locks longer than expected.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: If the lock is temporary, waiting for the user to finish their work and release the lock may be the simplest solution.
  Contact the User: If you know who the user is, you can reach out to them to ask if they can release the lock.
  Use Transaction SM12: 
  
  Go to transaction code SM12 (Display and Delete Locks).
  Enter the relevant details (like the object name) to find the lock.
  If you have the necessary authorizations, you can delete the lock entry. Be cautious with this approach, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the user is still working on the object.
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs: Sometimes, background jobs may hold locks. Check transaction SM37 to see if any jobs are running that might be causing the lock.
  System Administration: If the issue persists, it may require intervention from a system administrator to investigate further or to check for any underlying issues in the system.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Lock Management: Understanding how SAP handles locks can help in troubleshooting. SAP uses a locking mechanism to ensure data integrity during concurrent access.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that users have the appropriate authorizations to manage locks if they need to resolve such issues.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or support notes for specific details related to the error message and best practices for handling locks.
  
  If the problem continues or if you encounter frequent locking issues, it may be beneficial to analyze user behavior and system performance to identify any patterns or underlying causes.