How To Fix SWP157 - Context lock after execution of work item &1 refused

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWP - WFM: Messages

• Message number: 157

• Message text: Context lock after execution of work item &1 refused

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SWP157 - Context lock after execution of work item &1 refused ?

  The SAP error message SWP157, which states "Context lock after execution of work item &1 refused," typically occurs in the context of workflow processing in SAP. This error indicates that a context lock could not be acquired after the execution of a work item, which can lead to issues in workflow processing.
  Cause:
  
  Context Locking Mechanism: SAP uses context locks to ensure that only one process can modify a particular workflow context at a time. If a work item is being processed and another attempt is made to access the same context, the system may refuse the lock.
  Long-Running Processes: If a work item takes too long to execute, it may lead to timeouts or conflicts with other processes trying to access the same context.
  Deadlocks: There may be a deadlock situation where two or more processes are waiting for each other to release locks.
  System Performance Issues: High system load or performance issues can lead to delays in lock acquisition.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Workflow Configuration: Review the workflow configuration to ensure that it is set up correctly and that there are no conflicts in the workflow steps.
  Increase Timeout Settings: If the work items are taking too long to process, consider increasing the timeout settings for context locks.
  Monitor System Performance: Use transaction codes like ST22 (Dump Analysis) and SM21 (System Log) to check for any performance issues or errors that may be affecting the workflow processing.
  Review Work Item Execution: Analyze the execution of the work item that caused the error. Check for any long-running tasks or processes that may be causing the lock to be held for an extended period.
  Check for Deadlocks: Use transaction SM12 (Lock Entries) to check for any lock entries that may indicate a deadlock situation. If found, resolve the deadlocks by terminating the processes involved.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide patches or updates that could resolve the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1 (Work Item Selection), SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Frequency), and SWI2_DURA (Work Item Duration) to analyze and monitor workflow items.
  Workflow Logs: Review workflow logs to identify any patterns or specific work items that frequently cause this error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community or forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have implemented.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.