How To Fix VIRT238 - In Use 16MB Pages

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VIRT - Virtualization Monitoring

• Message number: 238

• Message text: In Use 16MB Pages

What causes this issue?

The number of 16MB pages in real memory which are in use.

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 VIRT238 - In Use 16MB Pages ?

  The SAP error message VIRT238 "In Use 16MB Pages" typically indicates that the SAP system is encountering issues related to memory management, specifically with the use of large pages (16MB pages) in the virtual memory space. This can occur in environments where large pages are configured but not properly utilized or when there are limitations in the system's memory allocation.
  Cause:
  
  Memory Configuration: The SAP system is configured to use large pages, but the memory allocation is not sufficient or is misconfigured.
  Operating System Limitations: The operating system may have restrictions or limitations on the use of large pages, which can lead to this error.
  Insufficient Memory: The system may not have enough physical memory available to allocate the required large pages.
  Improper Setup: The setup for large pages in the SAP kernel or the operating system may not be correctly configured.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Memory Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the SAP system is configured correctly to use large pages. This includes checking the SAP profile parameters related to memory management.
  Verify that the vm.nr_hugepages parameter in the operating system is set correctly to allocate the required number of large pages.
  
  
  
  Adjust Operating System Settings:
  
  On Linux systems, you can adjust the number of huge pages by modifying the /etc/sysctl.conf file or using the sysctl command to set vm.nr_hugepages.
  For Windows systems, ensure that the large page support is enabled in the system settings.
  
  
  
  Monitor Memory Usage:
  
  Use monitoring tools to check the current memory usage and ensure that there is enough free memory available for the SAP system to allocate large pages.
  If necessary, increase the physical memory on the server.
  
  
  
  Review SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional configuration guidance.
  
  
  
  Restart SAP Services:
  
  After making changes to the configuration, restart the SAP services to apply the new settings.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Kernel Version: Ensure that you are using a compatible version of the SAP kernel that supports large pages.
  Operating System Documentation: Refer to the documentation for your specific operating system regarding the configuration and management of large pages.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights and experiences from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with SAP support or a qualified SAP Basis consultant for further assistance.