How To Fix PH128 - File cannot be opened for deletion since it is already open

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PH - PA: Archiving & Reorganization

• Message number: 128

• Message text: File cannot be opened for deletion since it is already open

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PH128 - File cannot be opened for deletion since it is already open ?

  The SAP error message PH128 indicates that a file cannot be opened for deletion because it is currently in use or open by another process. This typically occurs in scenarios where the system is trying to delete a file that is being accessed or locked by another user or application.
  Causes:
  
  File Locking: The file is currently being accessed by another user or process, which prevents it from being deleted.
  Open Sessions: There may be open sessions in SAP that are using the file.
  Background Jobs: A background job might be processing the file, which can lead to it being locked.
  File System Issues: There could be issues with the underlying file system that prevent the file from being deleted.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Identify the Lock:
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to check for any locks on the file. You can look for the user or process that is holding the lock.
  If you find a lock that is no longer needed, you can delete it (if you have the necessary permissions).
  
  
  
  Close Open Sessions:
  
  Ensure that all sessions that might be using the file are closed. This includes checking for any active users or processes that may be accessing the file.
  
  
  
  Check Background Jobs:
  
  Use transaction code SM37 to check for any background jobs that might be using the file. If you find any, you may need to wait for them to complete or terminate them if they are stuck.
  
  
  
  File System Check:
  
  If the issue persists, check the underlying file system for any issues. Ensure that the file system is not corrupted and that there are no permission issues preventing the deletion.
  
  
  
  Restart the Application:
  
  In some cases, restarting the SAP application or the server may help release any locks that are not being cleared properly.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP Notes or documentation related to the specific version of SAP you are using for any known issues or additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage locks.
  SM37: To monitor background jobs.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes that might address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to delete files and manage locks within the SAP system.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PH128 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.