How To Fix VIRT198 - Available Memory

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VIRT - Virtualization Monitoring

• Message number: 198

• Message text: Available Memory

What causes this issue?

This is the amount of physical memory that is available to this virtual
system, now.
This value is: the amount of memory (i.e. the upper limit) which has
been defined during configuration of this virtual system, if the
outstanding capacity is available from the host.
If the host has less memory free than the virtual system could use from
its configuration, this is the sum of the memory that is consumed by the
virtual system now and the additional memory free on the host.

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

System Response

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 VIRT198 - Available Memory ?

  The SAP error message VIRT198 typically indicates that the system has run out of available memory for the virtual memory allocation. This can occur in various scenarios, such as when the SAP application server is unable to allocate memory for processes due to insufficient resources.
  Cause:
  
  Insufficient Physical Memory: The server may not have enough physical RAM to support the current workload.
  Memory Configuration: The SAP memory parameters may not be optimally configured, leading to inefficient memory usage.
  High Workload: A sudden increase in user load or background jobs can lead to memory exhaustion.
  Memory Leaks: Certain applications or processes may have memory leaks, consuming more memory over time without releasing it.
  Operating System Limits: The operating system may have limits on the amount of memory that can be allocated to a single process.
  
  Solution:
  
  Increase Physical Memory: If possible, add more RAM to the server to accommodate the workload.
  Optimize Memory Parameters: Review and adjust the SAP memory parameters in the instance profile (e.g., abap/heap_area_total, abap/heap_area_dia, abap/heap_area_nondia, etc.) to ensure they are set appropriately for your workload.
  Monitor Workload: Use transaction codes like ST03N or ST06 to monitor system performance and identify any spikes in workload that may be causing memory issues.
  Check for Memory Leaks: Use transaction ST02 (Tune Summary) to check for memory usage and identify any potential memory leaks in the system.
  Review Background Jobs: Check for any long-running or resource-intensive background jobs that may be consuming excessive memory.
  Adjust OS Settings: If applicable, review and adjust operating system settings related to memory allocation limits.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to memory management and the specific error message for any patches or updates that may address the issue.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation on memory management for best practices and guidelines.
  System Monitoring Tools: Utilize tools like SAP Solution Manager or third-party monitoring solutions to keep track of system performance and memory usage over time.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with SAP support or a qualified SAP Basis consultant for further assistance.