How To Fix XMS_ADM640 - Error during user switch (principal propagation procedure). &1&2&3&4

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: XMS_ADM - XMS - Administration

• Message number: 640

• Message text: Error during user switch (principal propagation procedure). &1&2&3&4

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message XMS_ADM640 - Error during user switch (principal propagation procedure). &1&2&3&4 ?

  The SAP error message XMS_ADM640 indicates that there was an error during a user switch, specifically in the context of principal propagation. This typically occurs in scenarios where a user is trying to access resources or perform actions that require a switch to a different user context, often in environments that utilize Single Sign-On (SSO) or when integrating with external systems.
  Causes:
  
  Configuration Issues: The principal propagation settings may not be correctly configured in the SAP system or in the external system (like an application server or a web server).
  Authorization Problems: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the user switch.
  Network Issues: There could be network connectivity problems between the SAP system and the external system.
  Missing or Incorrect User Mapping: The mapping between the users in the SAP system and the external system may be incorrect or missing.
  Technical Errors: There may be underlying technical issues, such as problems with the SAP kernel or the application server.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings for principal propagation in both the SAP system and any external systems involved. Ensure that they are set up correctly.
  Review Authorizations: Verify that the user attempting the switch has the necessary authorizations. You may need to check roles and profiles assigned to the user.
  Network Connectivity: Ensure that there are no network issues preventing communication between the SAP system and the external system.
  User Mapping: Check the user mapping configuration to ensure that users are correctly mapped between the systems.
  SAP Notes: Look for relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases updates and patches that can resolve known issues.
  Logs and Traces: Analyze the system logs and traces for more detailed error messages that can provide additional context about the failure.
  Consult Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation related to principal propagation and user switching for any additional configuration steps or troubleshooting tips.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Principal Propagation: This is a mechanism that allows a user’s identity to be passed from one system to another, enabling seamless access without requiring multiple logins.
  Single Sign-On (SSO): Often used in conjunction with principal propagation, SSO allows users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple systems without re-entering credentials.
  SAP Security: Understanding SAP security concepts, including roles, authorizations, and user management, is crucial for troubleshooting user switch issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to engage SAP support for further assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the context in which it occurred.