How To Fix SKWG_ERRS038 - External lock on send request

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SKWG_ERRS - Message Class for SKWG Errors

• Message number: 038

• Message text: External lock on send request

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SKWG_ERRS038 - External lock on send request ?

  The SAP error message SKWG_ERRS038 indicates that there is an external lock on a send request, which typically occurs in the context of SAP's application layer when trying to send data or messages between systems or processes. This error can arise in various scenarios, such as during data transfer, integration processes, or when using certain SAP modules that involve communication between different components.
  Cause:
  
  
  External Lock: The error suggests that another process or user has locked the resource that your process is trying to access. This could be due to:
  
  A long-running transaction that has not yet completed.
  A manual lock placed by a user or administrator.
  A system process that is currently using the resource.
  
  
  
  Concurrency Issues: Multiple processes trying to access the same resource simultaneously can lead to locking issues.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration in the system settings related to message handling or data transfer can also lead to this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Lock:
  
  Use transaction codes like SM12 (to view and manage locks) to identify which user or process is holding the lock.
  Check for any long-running transactions that may be causing the lock.
  
  
  
  Release the Lock:
  
  If you identify a lock that is no longer needed, you can manually release it using transaction SM12. However, be cautious when doing this, as it may affect other users or processes.
  
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs:
  
  Review any background jobs that may be running and holding locks. You can use transaction SM37 to monitor background jobs.
  
  
  
  Retry the Operation:
  
  After resolving the lock, retry the operation that caused the error.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the configuration settings for the relevant SAP modules are correct and optimized for your use case.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes or updates related to this error message. There may be specific patches or updates that address known issues.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage locks.
  SM37: To monitor background jobs.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related errors or warnings.
  
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on locking mechanisms and error handling.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.