How To Fix VSCAN018 - Virus scan server &1 is already active

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VSCAN - Virus Scan Interface

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Virus scan server &1 is already active

What causes this issue?

Virus scan server &V1& is to be started, but is already active.

System Response

The server that has already been started is used.
The message is displayed, since the starting of the virus scan server
normally causes an initialization. However, since the server is already
running and is therefore initialized, this step cannot be performed.

How to fix this error?

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

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 VSCAN018 - Virus scan server &1 is already active ?

  The SAP error message VSCAN018 indicates that the virus scan server (VSCAN) you are trying to start is already active. This can occur in environments where multiple instances of the virus scan server are configured or when there is an attempt to start a server that is already running.
  Cause:
  
  Multiple Instances: You may have multiple instances of the virus scan server configured, and the one you are trying to start is already running.
  Configuration Issues: There may be a misconfiguration in the settings that leads to the system attempting to start the same server instance multiple times.
  Server Crash or Hang: If the server crashed or hung previously, it might still be marked as active in the system, preventing a new instance from starting.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Active Instances: 
  
  Use transaction code SM51 to check the active instances of the virus scan server. Look for any instances that are already running.
  You can also check the logs for the virus scan server to see if it is indeed active.
  
  
  
  Stop the Active Instance:
  
  If you find that the server is running and you need to restart it, you can stop the active instance using the appropriate command or transaction.
  Use transaction SICF to manage the services related to the virus scan.
  
  
  
  Restart the Server:
  
  After stopping the active instance, you can attempt to start the virus scan server again.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Review the configuration settings for the virus scan server in transaction RSCONN01 to ensure that there are no duplicate entries or misconfigurations.
  
  
  
  System Restart:
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot identify the active instance, consider restarting the SAP system. This can help clear any stale processes.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to the SAP documentation or notes related to the virus scan interface for any specific troubleshooting steps or updates.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Virus Scan Configuration: Ensure that your virus scan server is properly configured according to SAP guidelines.
  Logs: Review the logs for the virus scan server for any additional error messages or warnings that could provide more context on the issue.
  
  If the problem continues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support for further assistance.