Stop googling SAP errors. Use our Free Essentials plan instead - no credit card needed. Start Now

Close

How To Fix WS_TOOL118 - Variant &1 deleted


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WS_TOOL - Message Class for Web Services and Virtual Endpoints

  • Message number: 118

  • Message text: Variant &1 deleted

  • Show details Hide details


  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



    What else can you do?

    First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

    Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

    You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS_TOOL118 - Variant &1 deleted ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message WS_TOOL118 Variant &1 deleted:


    SAP Error Message: WS_TOOL118 Variant &1 deleted


    Meaning / Cause:

    • The message WS_TOOL118 Variant &1 deleted indicates that a variant (a saved set of input values for a report or transaction) has been deleted.
    • The placeholder &1 is replaced by the name of the variant that was deleted.
    • This message typically appears when you try to use or reference a variant that no longer exists in the system because it has been deleted either manually by a user or programmatically.
    • Variants are often used to save selection screen parameters for reports or transactions to facilitate repeated execution with the same parameters.

    When does this occur?

    • When you execute a report or transaction and specify a variant that has been deleted.
    • When a program or background job tries to access a variant that was deleted.
    • When a user attempts to manage or display variants and the system detects that the variant is no longer available.

    Solution / How to resolve:

    1. Check Variant Existence:

      • Go to the transaction or report where the variant is used.
      • Use the variant selection screen to check if the variant still exists.
      • You can use transaction SE38 or SA38 to run the report and check variants.
    2. Recreate the Variant:

      • If the variant was deleted unintentionally, recreate it by entering the desired selection parameters and saving it as a new variant.
      • Make sure to use a meaningful name to avoid confusion.
    3. Update Background Jobs or Programs:

      • If the variant is used in background jobs (via transaction SM37), update the job to use an existing variant.
      • Edit the job and select a valid variant or create a new one.
    4. Check Authorizations:

      • Sometimes variants may appear deleted due to authorization restrictions.
      • Ensure the user has the necessary authorizations to view or use the variant.
    5. Check for Programmatic Deletion:

      • If variants are deleted by custom programs or cleanup jobs, verify the logic to avoid deleting variants still in use.

    Additional Information:

    • Variants are stored in the SAP table VARID (variant header) and VARI (variant values).
    • You can view and manage variants via transaction SE38 ? select report ? "Variants" button.
    • Variants can be client-specific or cross-client depending on how they were created.
    • Deleting variants is a normal maintenance activity but should be done carefully if they are used in scheduled jobs or frequently executed reports.

    Summary:

    Aspect Details
    Message WS_TOOL118 Variant &1 deleted
    Cause Variant &1 no longer exists (deleted)
    Effect Cannot use or reference the deleted variant
    Solution Recreate variant or update references to use existing variants
    Transactions SE38, SA38, SM37 (background jobs)

    If you need help recreating variants or updating jobs, feel free to ask!

    • Do you have any question about this error?


      Upgrade now to chat with this error.


Instant HelpGet instant SAP help. Sign up for our Free Essentials Plan.


Related SAP Error Messages

Click the links below to see the following related messages:

Click on this link to search all SAP messages.


Rating
ERPlingo's SAP support assistant is amazing. Saves me countless hours trying to solve complex SAP issues myself. It's a real game changer!
Rate 1
Thomas Michael
SAP Consultant, Author & Speaker