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How To Fix W0172 - Maintain at most one of the three update indicators


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: W0 - Customizing - ISR

  • Message number: 172

  • Message text: Maintain at most one of the three update indicators

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W0172 - Maintain at most one of the three update indicators ?

    SAP Error Message:
    W0172 Maintain at most one of the three update indicators


    Cause:

    This warning message occurs when you try to maintain more than one of the three update indicators simultaneously in a configuration or customizing setting. In SAP, certain fields or settings allow only one update indicator to be active at a time to avoid conflicts in update processing.

    The three update indicators typically refer to:

    • Update 1 (Update flag 1)
    • Update 2 (Update flag 2)
    • Update 3 (Update flag 3)

    These indicators control how and when data is updated in the system, for example, during posting or data transfer processes. Activating more than one update indicator at the same time is not allowed because it can cause inconsistent or conflicting update behavior.


    Where it occurs:

    • Often encountered in customizing settings related to financial accounting, controlling, or logistics modules.
    • Common in transaction codes where update rules or posting rules are maintained (e.g., OBYC, OBA7, or similar).
    • Can also appear during configuration of document types, posting keys, or update rules.

    Solution:

    • Review the configuration or customizing screen where the update indicators are maintained.
    • Ensure that only one of the three update indicators is selected or maintained.
    • Deselect or clear the other two update indicators.
    • Save the configuration after correcting the update indicator selection.

    Additional Information:

    • This is a warning message (W0172), so it may not stop the process but indicates a configuration issue that should be corrected.
    • Maintaining more than one update indicator can lead to unpredictable system behavior or errors during document posting or data updates.
    • If unsure which update indicator to maintain, refer to the SAP module documentation or consult with a functional consultant to understand the correct update indicator for your business process.
    • Sometimes, the three update indicators correspond to different update tasks (e.g., update of accounting documents, controlling documents, or asset accounting). Only one should be active depending on the process.

    Summary:

    Aspect Description
    Cause More than one update indicator selected simultaneously.
    Effect Conflicting update behavior; warning message issued.
    Solution Maintain only one update indicator; clear the others.
    Where Customizing of update rules, posting keys, document types, etc.
    Message Type Warning (W0172)

    If you provide the exact transaction or customizing step where you encounter this message, I can help with more specific guidance.

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