How To Fix SMI_GENERAL017 - Operation failed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SMI_GENERAL -

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Operation failed

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SMI_GENERAL017 - Operation failed ?

  The SAP error message SMI_GENERAL017 Operation failed typically indicates a general failure in a specific operation within the SAP system, often related to the SAP Solution Manager or other system management tasks. This error can arise from various underlying issues, including configuration problems, system resource limitations, or issues with the specific transaction or operation being performed.
  Possible Causes:
  
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect settings in the SAP Solution Manager or related components can lead to this error.
  Authorization Problems: The user executing the operation may not have the necessary permissions.
  System Resource Limitations: Insufficient memory, CPU, or disk space can cause operations to fail.
  Network Issues: Problems with network connectivity can interrupt operations, especially in distributed environments.
  Software Bugs: There may be bugs in the SAP software or specific patches that need to be applied.
  Data Consistency Issues: Inconsistent or corrupted data in the database can lead to failures during operations.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings in the SAP Solution Manager or the relevant module to ensure they are correct.
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the operation. You can check this in transaction SU53 or by consulting with your security team.
  Monitor System Resources: Use transaction ST02 (Buffer Monitor), ST06 (Operating System Monitor), or ST04 (Database Performance Monitor) to check for resource bottlenecks.
  Check Network Connectivity: Ensure that there are no network issues affecting communication between systems.
  Review Logs: Check the system logs (transaction SM21) and the application logs (transaction SLG1) for more detailed error messages that can provide insights into the failure.
  Apply Patches: Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest patches and updates. Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes or updates.
  Data Consistency Check: If you suspect data issues, consider running consistency checks or using transaction SE14 to check database consistency.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search the SAP Support Portal for specific notes related to the SMI_GENERAL017 error. There may be specific fixes or recommendations provided by SAP.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for the specific module or functionality you are working with to ensure you are following the correct procedures.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to contact SAP support for further assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the context in which it occurred.