How To Fix WSUBST028 - Error while creating the switch-back information

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WSUBST - Substitution Article Handling

• Message number: 028

• Message text: Error while creating the switch-back information

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 WSUBST028 - Error while creating the switch-back information ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WSUBST028 - Error while creating the switch-back information
  
  Cause
  The error WSUBST028 typically occurs during a system copy, client copy, or system refresh process when SAP tries to create "switch-back" information but fails. The "switch-back" information is used to revert the system to its previous state if the copy or refresh process needs to be undone.
  Common causes include:
  
  Missing or inconsistent transport routes or transport layers in the system.
  Authorization issues preventing the creation or writing of switch-back data.
  Database inconsistencies or locks that prevent the creation of required entries.
  Incorrect or incomplete configuration of the transport management system (TMS).
  Issues with the transport directory or file system permissions where switch-back information is stored.
  Problems with the client copy or system copy process itself, such as interrupted or incomplete steps.
  
  
  Solution
  To resolve the WSUBST028 error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check Transport Routes and Layers:
  
  Verify that the transport routes and layers are correctly configured in the Transport Management System (TMS).
  Use transaction STMS to check the configuration and ensure all systems are properly connected.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure the user performing the operation has sufficient authorizations, especially for transport and client copy activities.
  Check roles and profiles assigned to the user.
  
  
  
  Check File System Permissions:
  
  Verify that the transport directory (usually /usr/sap/trans or equivalent) has the correct permissions and enough free space.
  Ensure the SAP system user has write access to the transport directory and subdirectories.
  
  
  
  Check for Locks or Database Issues:
  
  Look for any database locks or inconsistencies that might prevent writing switch-back information.
  Use transaction SM12 to check for locked entries related to the transport or client copy.
  
  
  
  Review Logs and Dumps:
  
  Check the system logs (SM21), short dumps (ST22), and transport logs for more detailed error messages.
  Look for related errors that might give more context.
  
  
  
  Retry the Operation:
  
  Sometimes, transient issues cause this error. Retry the client copy or system copy after ensuring the above points.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support:
  
  Search for SAP Notes related to WSUBST028 on the SAP Support Portal.
  For example, SAP Note 1234567 (hypothetical) might address known issues with switch-back information creation.
  If the problem persists, consider raising a support ticket with SAP, providing logs and system details.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  STMS - Transport Management System
  SCCL / SCC9 - Client copy transactions
  SM12 - Lock entries
  SM21 - System log
  ST22 - ABAP runtime errors
  
  
  
  Concepts:
  
  Switch-back information: Data saved during client or system copy to allow rollback.
  Transport routes: Define how changes move between SAP systems.
  Transport layers: Define the layer of development or customization.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Always check the latest SAP Notes for updates or patches.
  SAP Help Portal documentation on client copy and transport management.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide more context (e.g., during which operation the error occurs, system version), I can help narrow down the cause and solution further.