How To Fix VIRT418 - Memory Active (Working Set Size)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VIRT - Virtualization Monitoring

• Message number: 418

• Message text: Memory Active (Working Set Size)

What causes this issue?

This is the amount of memory the virtual system is actively using - its
estimated working set size.

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 VIRT418 - Memory Active (Working Set Size) ?

  The SAP error message VIRT418, which indicates "Memory Active (Working Set Size)," typically relates to issues with memory allocation and usage within the SAP system. This error can occur when the system is unable to allocate sufficient memory for its operations, which can lead to performance degradation or even system crashes.
  Cause:
  
  Insufficient Memory Allocation: The SAP application server 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 higher memory consumption.
  Memory Leaks: Inefficient coding or poorly optimized programs can lead to memory leaks, where memory is not released back to the system after use.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system or the underlying operating system can lead to memory management issues.
  Operating System Limits: The operating system may impose limits on the amount of memory that can be allocated to a single process.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Increase Memory Allocation: 
  
  Review and increase the memory settings for the SAP instance in the profile parameters (e.g., abap/heap_area_total, abap/heap_area_dia, etc.).
  Ensure that the operating system has enough physical and virtual memory available.
  
  
  
  Monitor and Optimize Workload:
  
  Use transaction codes like ST03N or ST06 to monitor system performance and identify any bottlenecks.
  Analyze and optimize long-running or resource-intensive transactions.
  
  
  
  Check for Memory Leaks:
  
  Use tools like the SAP Memory Inspector or transaction ST02 to analyze memory usage and identify potential leaks.
  Review custom code and third-party add-ons for inefficiencies.
  
  
  
  Adjust Operating System Settings:
  
  Check and adjust the operating system's memory limits and settings to ensure that the SAP system can utilize available resources effectively.
  
  
  
  System Restart: 
  
  In some cases, a system restart may help clear temporary memory issues and free up resources.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: 
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to VIRT418.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Memory Management: Understanding how SAP manages memory can help in troubleshooting and optimizing performance.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like ST02 (Tune Summary), ST03N (Workload Analysis), and SM50 (Process Overview) for monitoring memory usage.
  SAP Basis Administration: Knowledge of SAP Basis administration can be beneficial for managing system resources effectively.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to engage SAP support for further assistance.