How To Fix OW005 - File & could not be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OW - SAP ArchiveLink: Messages for Workflow

• Message number: 005

• Message text: File & could not be deleted

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 OW005 - File & could not be deleted ?

  The SAP error message OW005, which states "File & could not be deleted," typically occurs when there is an issue with deleting a file from the SAP system. This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution. Here are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  File Locking: The file may be locked by another user or process, preventing deletion.
  Insufficient Permissions: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the file.
  File System Issues: There may be issues with the underlying file system, such as disk space problems or file system corruption.
  Incorrect File Path: The specified file path may be incorrect or the file may not exist.
  SAP System Issues: There could be issues with the SAP system itself, such as configuration problems or bugs.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check File Locking:
  
  Ensure that no other users or processes are currently using the file. You can use transaction codes like SM12 to check for locks.
  
  
  
  Verify Permissions:
  
  Check the user’s authorizations to ensure they have the necessary permissions to delete files. This can be done through transaction SU53 or by consulting with your SAP security team.
  
  
  
  Inspect File System:
  
  Check the underlying file system for issues. Ensure there is enough disk space and that the file system is functioning correctly. You may need to consult your system administrator for this.
  
  
  
  Confirm File Path:
  
  Double-check the file path specified in the deletion command. Ensure that the file exists and that the path is correct.
  
  
  
  SAP System Check:
  
  If the issue persists, consider checking for any known bugs or issues with your version of SAP. You may also want to consult SAP Notes or reach out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  
  
  Use Alternative Methods:
  
  If the standard deletion method fails, consider using alternative methods or tools provided by SAP for file management.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM12 (to check locks), SU53 (to check authorizations), and others that may help in troubleshooting.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to error OW005 in the SAP Support Portal for any specific fixes or patches.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation for file management and deletion processes to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to escalate the issue to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.