How To Fix SPAU042 - You are not authorized to create a protocol

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SPAU - SPAU Messages

• Message number: 042

• Message text: You are not authorized to create a protocol

What causes this issue?

Transaction SPAU records all executed actions in a central protocol. So
far, no protocol has been created for this purpose. However, you are not
authorized to create a protocol.

System Response

You can continue in display mode, but no actions will be possible.

How to fix this error?

Ask your system administrator to create a protocol.

Procedure for System Administrators

Start transaction SPAU. When prompted, enter a title for the protocol,
and confirm the dialog.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SPAU042 - You are not authorized to create a protocol ?

  The SAP error message SPAU042, which states "You are not authorized to create a protocol," typically occurs when a user attempts to access or create a protocol in the SAP system but lacks the necessary authorizations. This can happen in various contexts, such as during the adjustment of objects in the SAP system after a transport or during the use of transaction codes that require specific permissions.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Authorizations: The user does not have the required authorization objects assigned to their user profile to create or modify protocols.
  Role Configuration: The roles assigned to the user may not include the necessary permissions for the specific transaction or action they are trying to perform.
  System Settings: Certain system settings or configurations may restrict access to protocol creation.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Use transaction code SU53 immediately after encountering the error to check the authorization check that failed. This will provide insight into which specific authorization is missing.
  Alternatively, you can use transaction code SU01 to view the user’s profile and roles.
  
  
  
  Modify User Roles:
  
  If you have the necessary permissions, you can modify the user’s roles to include the required authorization objects. This typically involves adding the relevant authorization objects related to protocol creation (e.g., S_PROGRAM, S_TCODE, etc.).
  If you do not have the necessary permissions, contact your SAP security administrator or BASIS team to request the required authorizations.
  
  
  
  Review Authorization Objects:
  
  Ensure that the authorization objects related to the specific transaction or action are included in the user’s roles. Common authorization objects that may be relevant include:
  
  S_USER_AUTH (User Authorization)
  S_USER_PRO (User Profile)
  S_TCODE (Transaction Code)
  S_PROGRAM (Program Authorization)
  
  
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes to the user roles or authorizations, have the user log out and log back in to see if the issue is resolved.
  
  
  
  Documentation:
  
  Document any changes made to user roles or authorizations for future reference and compliance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SU01 (User Maintenance), PFCG (Role Maintenance), and SU53 (Authorization Check).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to the error message SPAU042.
  Security Best Practices: Ensure that user roles are regularly reviewed and updated to maintain security and compliance within the SAP system.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, further investigation may be required, potentially involving SAP support or a deeper analysis of the system configuration.