How To Fix /PM0/3FWM_TOOL120 - Critical section locked by another process

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /PM0/3FWM_TOOL -

• Message number: 120

• Message text: Critical section locked by another process

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /PM0/3FWM_TOOL120 - Critical section locked by another process ?

  The SAP error message /PM0/3FWM_TOOL120 Critical section locked by another process typically indicates that a particular resource or critical section in the system is currently being accessed or modified by another process. This can happen in various scenarios, especially in environments where multiple processes or users are trying to access the same data or functionality simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another process is currently executing a task that locks the critical section, preventing other processes from accessing it.
  Long-Running Transactions: A transaction may be taking longer than expected, holding the lock for an extended period.
  Deadlocks: In some cases, a deadlock situation may arise where two or more processes are waiting for each other to release locks.
  System Configuration: Configuration settings related to locking mechanisms may not be optimized for your specific use case.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: Often, simply waiting for a few moments and then retrying the operation can resolve the issue, as the other process may complete its task and release the lock.
  Identify the Locking Process: Use transaction codes like SM12 (for lock entries) or SM21 (for system logs) to identify which process is holding the lock. You can then determine if it is safe to terminate that process.
  Check for Long-Running Transactions: Investigate if there are any long-running transactions that may be causing the lock. If necessary, you can terminate these transactions using transaction SM50 or SM66.
  Optimize Processes: Review and optimize the processes that are frequently causing locks. This may involve changing the way transactions are executed or modifying the application logic.
  Increase Lock Timeout: If applicable, consider increasing the lock timeout settings in your SAP system configuration to allow processes more time to complete before timing out.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes or patches that may address this specific error or improve locking mechanisms.
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  SM21: View system logs for error messages and warnings.
  SM50: Monitor active processes in the system.
  SM66: Monitor processes across the entire system.
  
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on locking mechanisms and best practices for managing concurrent processes.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found effective.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.