How To Fix VIRT197 - Memory Limit

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VIRT - Virtualization Monitoring

• Message number: 197

• Message text: Memory Limit

What causes this issue?

This is the upper limit of memory that may be consumed by the virtual
system.
The upper limit of memory is defined by two factors:
1. The memory configured for this virtual system.
2. The memory limit defined for this virtual system during
configuration.
The upper limit of memory is the minimum of both values.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VIRT197 - Memory Limit ?

  The SAP error message VIRT197 indicates that the memory limit for the SAP application server has been exceeded. This can occur in various scenarios, particularly when the system is under heavy load or when there are memory-intensive operations being performed.
  Cause:
  
  Insufficient Memory Allocation: The SAP instance may not have enough memory allocated to handle the current workload.
  High Workload: A sudden increase in user activity or background jobs can lead to memory exhaustion.
  Memory Leaks: Certain programs or transactions may not release memory properly, leading to gradual memory consumption.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings for the SAP instance or the underlying operating system can limit available memory.
  Large Data Processing: Operations that involve processing large datasets can consume significant memory.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Increase Memory Allocation:
  
  Adjust the instance profile parameters to allocate more memory. Key parameters include abap/heap_area_dia, abap/heap_area_nondia, and abap/heap_area_total.
  Ensure that the operating system has enough physical memory available.
  
  
  
  Monitor and Optimize Workload:
  
  Use transaction codes like ST03N (Workload Analysis) and ST06 (Operating System Monitor) to analyze system performance and identify bottlenecks.
  Optimize long-running or resource-intensive transactions.
  
  
  
  Check for Memory Leaks:
  
  Use transaction ST22 (Dump Analysis) to check for short dumps related to memory issues.
  Analyze the code for potential memory leaks, especially in custom developments.
  
  
  
  Adjust Configuration:
  
  Review and adjust the SAP kernel and database settings to ensure optimal performance.
  Ensure that the operating system settings (like swap space) are configured correctly.
  
  
  
  Restart the Instance:
  
  In some cases, a simple restart of the SAP instance can free up memory and resolve temporary issues.
  
  
  
  Upgrade Hardware:
  
  If the system consistently runs out of memory, consider upgrading the server hardware to provide more RAM.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to VIRT197 for specific patches or recommendations.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have faced similar issues.
  Performance Monitoring Tools: Utilize SAP's performance monitoring tools to keep track of memory usage and system performance over time.
  
  Preventive Measures:
  
  Regularly monitor system performance and memory usage.
  Schedule regular maintenance and performance tuning sessions.
  Keep the SAP system and its components updated to the latest versions to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.
  
  By addressing the underlying causes and implementing the suggested solutions, you can mitigate the occurrence of the VIRT197 error and improve the overall performance of your SAP system.