How To Fix MSGSERVER051 - Server & could not be activated

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MSGSERVER - Messages for Message Server

• Message number: 051

• Message text: Server & could not be activated

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MSGSERVER051 - Server & could not be activated ?

  The SAP error message "MSGSERVER051 Server & could not be activated" typically indicates that there is an issue with the activation of a server instance in the SAP system landscape. This error can occur for various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for troubleshooting and resolving the issue.
  Possible Causes:
  
  
  Configuration Issues: The server may not be properly configured in the SAP system. This could include incorrect parameters in the instance profile or missing configuration files.
  
  
  Resource Availability: The server may not have enough resources (CPU, memory, disk space) to start. This can happen if the server is overloaded or if there are limits set on resource usage.
  
  
  Network Issues: There may be network connectivity problems preventing the server from communicating with other components in the SAP landscape.
  
  
  Database Issues: If the database is down or not accessible, the application server may fail to start.
  
  
  File Permissions: The user under which the SAP instance is running may not have the necessary permissions to access required files or directories.
  
  
  Service Dependencies: Other services that the server depends on may not be running, leading to a failure in activation.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Configuration: Review the instance profile and ensure that all parameters are correctly set. You can use transaction code RZ10 to check and modify instance profiles.
  
  
  Resource Monitoring: Monitor the server's resource usage (CPU, memory, disk space) and ensure that it meets the requirements for running the SAP instance. You can use tools like top, htop, or system monitoring tools to check resource availability.
  
  
  Network Configuration: Verify network settings and ensure that the server can communicate with the database and other necessary components. Check firewall settings and network configurations.
  
  
  Database Status: Ensure that the database is up and running. You can check the database logs for any errors and use database management tools to verify its status.
  
  
  File Permissions: Check the permissions of the SAP directories and files. Ensure that the user running the SAP instance has the necessary permissions to access these files.
  
  
  Check Logs: Review the SAP logs for more detailed error messages. The logs can be found in the dev_* files located in the work directory of the instance. Look for dev_w0, dev_rfc, and other relevant logs.
  
  
  Restart Services: If there are dependent services, ensure they are running. Restarting the SAP instance or the entire server may also help resolve transient issues.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message. There may be patches or updates available that can resolve the issue.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like RZ10 (Profile Maintenance), RZ11 (Profile Parameter Maintenance), and SM51 (List of SAP Servers) for managing and monitoring SAP instances.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance, especially if you have a support contract.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the "MSGSERVER051 Server & could not be activated" error and implement a solution to resolve it.