How To Fix /SMB/UTILITY194 - Configuration changes are not allowed, initial activation is in progress

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/UTILITY -

• Message number: 194

• Message text: Configuration changes are not allowed, initial activation is in progress

Self-Explanatory Message

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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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SMB/UTILITY194 - Configuration changes are not allowed, initial activation is in progress ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/UTILITY194 Configuration changes are not allowed, initial activation is in progress typically occurs in the context of the SAP Business One or SAP S/4HANA systems when there is an ongoing process that is preventing configuration changes. This error indicates that the system is currently in a state where it is performing an initial activation, and as a result, any changes to the configuration are restricted until this process is completed.
  Cause:
  
  Initial Activation in Progress: The most common cause of this error is that the system is in the middle of an initial activation process, which is a critical step in setting up or updating the system configuration.
  Long-running Processes: Sometimes, the activation process may take longer than expected due to system performance issues or large volumes of data being processed.
  Concurrent Sessions: If multiple users or processes are trying to make configuration changes simultaneously, it can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait for Completion: The simplest solution is to wait for the initial activation process to complete. You can monitor the progress through the system logs or transaction codes that provide information about ongoing processes.
  Check Background Jobs: Use transaction codes like SM37 to check for any background jobs related to the activation process. If you find that the job is stuck or taking too long, you may need to investigate further.
  System Logs: Review the system logs (transaction SLG1) for any errors or warnings that might indicate why the activation is taking longer than expected.
  Restart the Process: If the activation process seems to be stuck, you may need to restart it. However, this should be done with caution and ideally under the guidance of an SAP Basis administrator.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP Notes or documentation specific to your version of SAP for any known issues or additional troubleshooting steps related to this error.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot resolve it, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM37 (Job Monitoring), SLG1 (Application Log), and SM21 (System Log) to help diagnose the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide guidance on handling activation processes.
  System Performance: Ensure that your system is adequately resourced (CPU, memory, etc.) to handle the activation process efficiently.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the error and proceed with your configuration changes once the initial activation is complete.