How To Fix XT661 - You can only update external systems in the controller system

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: XT - Transport Management System

• Message number: 661

• Message text: You can only update external systems in the controller system

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 XT661 - You can only update external systems in the controller system ?

  The SAP error message XT661, "You can only update external systems in the controller system," typically occurs in the context of distributed systems or when working with SAP Landscape Management (LaMa) or similar setups where multiple systems are involved. This error indicates that an attempt was made to update an external system from a non-controller system, which is not allowed.
  Cause:
  
  System Roles: In a distributed environment, there are designated controller systems that manage updates to external systems. If you attempt to perform an update from a system that is not designated as the controller, you will encounter this error.
  Configuration Issues: The system may not be properly configured to recognize which system is the controller, leading to confusion about where updates can be made.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform updates on the external system from the current system.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify the Controller System: Determine which system is designated as the controller in your landscape. This is typically the system that manages the updates and configurations for the other systems.
  Perform Updates from the Controller: Ensure that any updates or changes to external systems are performed from the controller system. Log into the controller system and execute the necessary updates from there.
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings in your SAP landscape to ensure that the controller system is correctly defined and that all systems are properly connected.
  User Authorizations: Verify that the user attempting to perform the update has the necessary authorizations in both the controller and the external systems.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional context or solutions for this error. SAP Notes often contain patches or configuration tips that can resolve specific issues.
  Documentation: Review the SAP documentation related to your specific version and setup, especially regarding system roles and landscape management.
  Support: If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance. They can provide more detailed troubleshooting based on your specific environment.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the XT661 error and successfully perform updates to external systems as needed.