How To Fix SPN013 - Kernel too old (to support Kerberos / SPNego)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SPN - SPnego

• Message number: 013

• Message text: Kernel too old (to support Kerberos / SPNego)

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 SPN013 - Kernel too old (to support Kerberos / SPNego) ?

  The SAP error message SPN013 indicates that the kernel version of your SAP system is too old to support Kerberos authentication or SPNego (Simple and Protected GSSAPI Negotiation Mechanism). This error typically arises when you are trying to configure or use Kerberos authentication for your SAP system, but the kernel version does not have the necessary support for these features.
  Cause:
  
  Outdated Kernel: The primary cause of this error is that the SAP kernel version you are using is outdated and does not include the necessary updates or features to support Kerberos or SPNego.
  Configuration Issues: Sometimes, the error may also arise due to misconfiguration in the SAP system or the underlying operating system related to Kerberos settings.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Upgrade the SAP Kernel:
  
  Check the current kernel version by using transaction code SLICENSE or by checking the kernel directory.
  Download the latest kernel version from the SAP Support Portal (https://support.sap.com) or the SAP Service Marketplace.
  Follow the instructions provided in the SAP Note or the kernel upgrade guide to perform the upgrade.
  After upgrading, restart the SAP system to apply the changes.
  
  
  
  Verify Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the Kerberos configuration files (like krb5.conf) are correctly set up on the server.
  Check the SAP profile parameters related to Kerberos and SPNego to ensure they are correctly configured.
  
  
  
  Check SAP Notes:
  
  Look for relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional guidance or patches related to your specific version of SAP and the kernel.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After upgrading the kernel and verifying the configuration, test the Kerberos authentication to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search for specific SAP Notes related to SPN013 or Kerberos authentication for additional troubleshooting steps or patches.
  Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation on configuring Kerberos authentication and SPNego for detailed steps and requirements.
  Community Forums: Engage with the SAP Community or forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SPN013 error and successfully implement Kerberos authentication in your SAP environment.