How To Fix VIRT241 - 4KB Page Outs

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VIRT - Virtualization Monitoring

• Message number: 241

• Message text: 4KB Page Outs

What causes this issue?

The amount of 4KB page page-outs.

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 VIRT241 - 4KB Page Outs ?

  The SAP error message VIRT241, which indicates "4KB Page Outs," is related to memory management in the SAP system, particularly in the context of virtual memory and paging. This error typically occurs when the SAP system is experiencing memory pressure, leading to excessive paging of memory pages to disk. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Insufficient Memory Allocation: The SAP instance may not have enough memory allocated to handle the workload, leading to frequent paging.
  High Workload: An increase in the number of users or transactions can lead to higher memory consumption.
  Memory Leaks: Certain applications or processes may not be releasing memory properly, causing the system to run out of available memory.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration of the SAP memory parameters (like abap/heap_area_total, abap/heap_area_dia, etc.) can lead to inefficient memory usage.
  Operating System Limits: The underlying operating system may have limits on memory usage that are being hit.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Increase Memory Allocation: Review and increase the memory settings for the SAP instance. This can be done by adjusting the profile parameters in the instance profile.
  Optimize Workload: Analyze the workload and consider load balancing or optimizing the application to reduce memory consumption.
  Check for Memory Leaks: Use transaction codes like ST02 (Tune Summary) and ST04 (Database Performance) to monitor memory usage and identify potential leaks.
  Adjust SAP Memory Parameters: Review and adjust the SAP memory parameters in the instance profile to better suit the workload. Parameters to consider include:
  
  abap/heap_area_total
  abap/heap_area_dia
  abap/heap_area_nondia
  
  
  Monitor System Performance: Use tools like SAP Solution Manager or transaction ST03N to monitor system performance and identify bottlenecks.
  Review Operating System Settings: Ensure that the operating system is configured to allow sufficient memory for the SAP instance. This may involve adjusting kernel parameters or system limits.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or specific fixes related to the VIRT241 error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have implemented.
  Performance Tuning: Regularly perform performance tuning and monitoring to prevent memory-related issues from arising in the future.
  
  Conclusion:
  Addressing the VIRT241 error involves a combination of increasing memory allocation, optimizing workloads, and ensuring proper configuration of both SAP and the underlying operating system. Regular monitoring and tuning can help maintain system performance and prevent similar issues from occurring.