How To Fix SWF_HTTP218 - Error when reading the port definition

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_HTTP - Web Services in the Workflow: Server Functions

• Message number: 218

• Message text: Error when reading the port definition

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SWF_HTTP218 - Error when reading the port definition ?

  The SAP error message SWF_HTTP218 typically indicates an issue with the configuration of the HTTP port definition in the SAP system. This error can occur in various scenarios, particularly when dealing with workflow or web services that rely on HTTP communication.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Port Configuration: The HTTP port may not be correctly defined in the SAP system, leading to issues when the system tries to read or access it.
  Missing or Inactive HTTP Service: The HTTP service might not be activated or properly configured in the SAP instance.
  Network Issues: There could be network-related problems preventing the SAP system from accessing the defined port.
  Authorization Issues: The user or service trying to access the port may not have the necessary authorizations.
  Transport Layer Security (TLS) Issues: If the system is configured to use HTTPS, there may be issues with the SSL/TLS configuration.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Port Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SICF (HTTP Service Hierarchy Maintenance) and verify that the HTTP service is correctly defined and active.
  Ensure that the port number is correctly specified in the configuration.
  
  
  
  Activate HTTP Services:
  
  If the HTTP service is inactive, activate it in the SICF transaction.
  Check the service path and ensure it is correctly set up.
  
  
  
  Network Configuration:
  
  Verify that there are no firewall or network issues blocking access to the specified port.
  Ensure that the server is reachable from the client trying to access it.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user or service account has the necessary authorizations to access the HTTP service.
  Use transaction SU53 to check for authorization failures.
  
  
  
  SSL/TLS Configuration:
  
  If using HTTPS, check the SSL/TLS settings in transaction STRUST to ensure that the certificates are correctly configured and valid.
  
  
  
  Review Logs:
  
  Check the system logs (transaction SM21) and the application logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages that might provide more context.
  
  
  
  Restart Services:
  
  Sometimes, simply restarting the relevant services or the entire SAP instance can resolve transient issues.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for configuring HTTP services and troubleshooting HTTP-related issues.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting on SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage SAP support for further assistance.