How To Fix SAML2040 - Holder-of-key certificate not found

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SAML2 - SAML2 Nachrichten

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Holder-of-key certificate not found

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SAML2040 - Holder-of-key certificate not found ?

  The SAP error message SAML2040: Holder-of-key certificate not found typically occurs in the context of Single Sign-On (SSO) configurations using SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language). This error indicates that the system is unable to find the required holder-of-key (HoK) certificate, which is necessary for validating the SAML assertions.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Certificate: The HoK certificate that is supposed to be used for validating the SAML assertion is not present in the SAP system.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the SAML service provider (SP) or identity provider (IdP) may be incorrect, leading to the system not being able to locate the certificate.
  Expired Certificate: The certificate may have expired, and the system is unable to validate the SAML assertion.
  Certificate Not Imported: The certificate may not have been imported into the SAP system's trust store.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Import the Certificate:
  
  Ensure that the HoK certificate is available and import it into the SAP system. This can typically be done using transaction STRUST.
  Navigate to the appropriate PSE (Personal Security Environment) and import the certificate.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Verify the SAML configuration in the SAP system. Ensure that the settings for the IdP and SP are correctly configured, including the certificate references.
  Check the SAML2 configuration in transaction SAML2 and ensure that the correct certificates are associated with the respective configurations.
  
  
  
  Update Expired Certificates:
  
  If the certificate has expired, obtain a new certificate from the IdP and import it into the SAP system.
  
  
  
  Test the Configuration:
  
  After making changes, test the SSO configuration to ensure that the error is resolved. You can use tools like the SAML2 Trace tool to debug and analyze SAML assertions.
  
  
  
  Check Logs:
  
  Review the SAP system logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation on SAML and SSO configurations for detailed steps on setting up and troubleshooting SAML configurations.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to SAML configurations and certificates.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for additional insights and shared experiences from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SAML2040 error and ensure that your SSO configuration is functioning correctly.