High CPU Usage Due to Excessive Process Switching

High CPU Usage Due to Excessive Process Switching

I was called in to troubleshoot a router that was behaving sluggishly—routing updates were delayed, SSH sessions kept timing out, and SNMP monitoring was erratic. The router wasn’t crashing, but it felt like it was gasping for air. A quick check revealed CPU usage hovering around 90–100%, even during off-peak hours.

🔍 Diagnosis

I ran:

• show processes cpu sorted — this showed that the IP Input process was consuming most of the CPU.
• show ip traffic — revealed a high number of packets per second, especially small packets.
• show interfaces — confirmed that the router was receiving traffic at a high rate, but not enough to justify the CPU spike.

That’s when I realized the router was process-switching packets instead of using CEF (Cisco Express Forwarding)—a much more efficient method.

✅ Solution

Here’s how I resolved it:

1. Enabled CEF globally:

conf t ip cef

2. Verified CEF on interfaces:

show ip interface GigabitEthernet0/1

3. If CEF wasn’t enabled per interface, I added:

interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip route-cache cef

4. Checked for ACLs or features forcing process switching: Some legacy ACLs were applied in a way that bypassed CEF. I restructured them using optimized match conditions and reordered them to reduce CPU load.
5. Monitored CPU again:

show processes cpu history

Within minutes, CPU usage dropped to under 30%, and the router’s responsiveness returned to normal.

📚 Reference That Helped

The Cisco Enterprise Troubleshooting Guide was instrumental. It explained how process switching can overwhelm routers and how enabling CEF can drastically improve performance. I also found practical tips on identifying CPU hogs and optimizing ACLs.

This issue is common in older configurations or when routers are upgraded but legacy settings remain. It’s a great reminder that performance isn’t just about bandwidth—it’s about how efficiently the router handles packets.

Would you like me to help you turn this into a visual performance optimization checklist or add it to your training materials?

DHCP Clients Not Receiving IP Addresses

I was setting up a small branch network using a Cisco ISR router as the DHCP server. Everything seemed fine—DHCP was configured, interfaces were up, and the router was connected to a switch distributing access to multiple clients. But none of the devices were getting IP addresses. They just sat there with APIPA addresses (169.254.x.x), unable to reach the network.

🔍 Diagnosis

I started with:

• show ip dhcp binding — no bindings were listed.
• debug ip dhcp server packet — showed DHCPDISCOVER packets arriving, but no DHCPOFFER responses.
• show run | include dhcp — confirmed the DHCP pool was defined correctly.

Then I checked the interface configuration and found the issue: the router’s LAN interface was missing the ip helper-address command, which is essential when DHCP clients are on a different subnet or VLAN.

✅ Solution

Here’s how I resolved it:

1. Verified the DHCP pool:

ip dhcp pool BRANCH_POOL network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.10.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8

2. Added the helper address to the interface:

interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip helper-address 192.168.10.1

3. Checked for ACLs blocking DHCP: I ensured there were no access lists denying UDP ports 67 and 68.
4. Restarted DHCP service:

clear ip dhcp binding *

Within seconds, clients began receiving IP addresses from the router. The show ip dhcp binding command showed active leases, and connectivity was restored.

📚 Reference That Helped

The Cisco DHCP Configuration Guide was incredibly helpful. It explained the role of ip helper-address in forwarding DHCP requests across subnets, and clarified how DHCP relay works in routed environments.

This issue is common in multi-VLAN setups or when DHCP is centralized. It’s a great reminder that DHCP isn’t just about defining pools—it’s about ensuring the requests reach the server, especially when routing is involved.

Interface Flapping Due to Duplex Mismatch

I was troubleshooting a branch router that kept dropping its uplink connection every few minutes. Users complained about unstable VPN sessions and slow internet. At first glance, everything looked fine—no obvious errors in the config, and the interface was up. But the logs told a different story: interface flapping.

🔍 Diagnosis

I ran:

• show interfaces GigabitEthernet0/0 and noticed frequent line protocol down/up messages.
• show logging revealed recurring %LINK-3-UPDOWN events.
• show controllers hinted at CRC errors and late collisions.

That’s when I suspected a duplex mismatch between the router and the connected switch.

✅ Solution

Here’s how I resolved it:

1. Checked switch port settings: On the switch side, the port was set to auto-negotiation.
2. Forced duplex and speed on the router:

interface GigabitEthernet0/0 speed 100 duplex full

3. Matched settings on the switch: I manually set the switch port to speed 100 and duplex full to ensure consistency.
4. Monitored stability: After the change, I monitored the interface with:

show interfaces GigabitEthernet0/0 | include line protocol

No more flapping. CRC errors dropped to zero, and users reported stable connectivity.

📚 Reference That Helped

The Cisco Enterprise Troubleshooting Guide was a lifesaver. It walked through how duplex mismatches can cause intermittent connectivity, especially when one side is set to auto and the other is hardcoded.

This issue is sneaky because it doesn’t always show up as a hard failure—it’s more like a slow bleed that degrades performance over time. It’s a good reminder to always verify both ends of a link when troubleshooting flapping or CRC errors.

Want me to help you turn these into a troubleshooting guide or training post for your blog?

NAT Overload Causing Internet Access Failure

I once had a small office setup where users suddenly lost internet access, even though the router was up and running. Local traffic was fine, but anything beyond the LAN was a no-go. The culprit? A misconfigured NAT overload (PAT) setup.

🔍 Diagnosis

I started by checking the basics:

• show ip interface brief confirmed interfaces were up.
• ping 8.8.8.8 from the router worked, but not from internal hosts.
• show ip nat translations returned nothing—no active NAT entries.

That was the red flag. NAT wasn’t translating internal IPs to the public IP. I checked the config and found the NAT rule was missing the correct ACL and interface mapping.

✅ Solution

Here’s how I fixed it:

1. Defined the ACL for internal traffic:

access-list 1 permit 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255

2. Configured NAT overload:

ip nat inside source list 1 interface GigabitEthernet0/0 overload

3. Set interface roles:

interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip nat inside interface GigabitEthernet0/0 ip nat outside

4. Verified NAT translations:

show ip nat translations

Once this was in place, internal users could access the internet again. NAT entries started populating, and traffic flowed smoothly.

📚 Reference That Helped

The Cisco NAT Configuration Guide was my go-to. It clarified how ACLs and interface roles interact with NAT, and helped me avoid common pitfalls like forgetting to set ip nat inside/outside on interfaces.

This issue is deceptively simple but incredibly common—especially when routers are reset or configs are copied without adapting to the new network. It’s a great reminder that NAT isn’t just plug-and-play; it needs precise alignment between ACLs, interfaces, and overload rules.

My Experience: OSPF Adjacency Not Forming

 A few months ago, I was helping a client stabilize their WAN links between two branch offices. Everything looked fine on paper—interfaces were up, IPs were correct, and OSPF was enabled. Yet, the routers refused to form adjacency. No routes were being exchanged, and the network felt like two ships passing in the night.

🔍 Diagnosis

I started with the basics:

• show ip ospf neighbor returned nothing—no neighbors detected.
• show ip ospf interface confirmed that OSPF was active on the correct interfaces.
• ping and traceroute showed that Layer 3 connectivity was intact.

Then I dug deeper and found the culprit: mismatched OSPF Area IDs and hello/dead timers between the routers. One router was configured with Area 0, the other with Area 1. Additionally, the hello/dead timers didn’t match, which silently blocked adjacency.

✅ Solution

Here’s what I did:

1. Unified the Area ID:

router ospf 1 network 192.168.10.0 0.0.0.255 area 0

1. I ensured both routers were in Area 0.
2. Matched Hello/Dead Timers:

interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip ospf hello-interval 10 ip ospf dead-interval 40

3. Cleared OSPF Process:

clear ip ospf process

2. This reset the OSPF state and allowed a fresh adjacency attempt.

Within seconds, show ip ospf neighbor showed both routers had formed a full adjacency. Routes began populating the routing table, and connectivity was restored.

📚 Reference That Helped

The Cisco Troubleshooting Guide was invaluable. It walked me through the use of show and debug commands, and helped me pinpoint the issue with OSPF parameters. I also leaned on this routing protocol troubleshooting breakdown, which explained how mismatches in OSPF settings can silently break communication.

This kind of issue is incredibly common—especially in environments where multiple admins touch configurations or when routers are added without full protocol alignment. It’s a reminder that even small mismatches can cause big disruptions.

How AI Has Transformed My Role as a SAP Basis Administrator

 1. A New Dawn in Basis Operations

When I first stepped into the SAP Basis world, my days followed a predictable pattern: logging in, executing custom scripts and ST03N reports, combing through system logs via SM21, and reviewing dumps in ST22. Every alert triggered a manual investigation—identifying log entries, consulting OSS Notes for fixes, testing in development, and then moving transports through the landscape. It was dependable work but left little room for innovation. That all began to change when SAP started embedding artificial intelligence into its core tools. Instead of merely reacting to problems, I found myself anticipating them.

2. Why SAP Turned to AI for Basis Administration

With S/4HANA and the SAP Business Technology Platform, SAP’s strategy shifted toward integrating “intelligence” at every layer of the stack. Static checks gave way to machine learning models that learn normal system behavior and flag deviations. Disk-space warnings no longer wait until you hit 90 %; predictive analytics alert you when you’re at 70 %, giving you time to act. SAP EarlyWatch Alert evolved from a simple weekly report into a predictive engine. Meanwhile, SAP AI Core and AI Launchpad opened the door for creating custom models to mine log data for hidden trends.

3. The First AI Tools I Rolled Out

3.1 Upgrading EarlyWatch Alert to Predictive Mode

• Enhanced capabilities: Rather than just summarizing performance metrics, EWA now uses historical CPU, memory, and response-time patterns to forecast potential issues.
• Configuration steps:
1. In transaction BWCI, I enabled the “Predictive Analytics” option.
2. Configured data extraction to Solution Manager 7.2.
3. In Solution Manager’s System Monitoring tile, I turned on “Predictive Alerts” and set thresholds conservatively—20 % lower than before.
• Outcome: EWA alerted me three days ahead of time that our finance cockpit would hit its work-process limit, allowing me to scale resources proactively.

3.2 Leveraging SAP AI Core & AI Launchpad

• Purpose: These BTP services provide a containerized environment to deploy custom machine-learning models.
• My approach:
1. Deployed SAP’s reference “Log Anomaly Detection” model from the public Git repository.
2. Connected it via OData to my on-premises Solution Manager logs.
3. Created a Fiori tile displaying the top five log patterns trending upward.
• Key steps:
• In the BTP cockpit, I provisioned an ai-core instance on the standard plan.
• Using the Cloud Foundry CLI:

cf create-service ai-core standard my-ai-service cf create-service-key my-ai-service release-key --parameters '{ "role": "ADMIN" }'


• Impact: Instead of sifting through hundreds of dump reports, I receive a concise daily list of the three most concerning error signatures—so I can dig into root causes before they impact users.

4. A Reimagined Daily Routine

Task Type	Before AI	After AI
Log Reviews	Full-day dives in SM21 and ST22	Quick glance at a Fiori tile showing “2 urgent anomalies”
Capacity Checks	Manual growth trend analysis	Automated forecasts flagging resource thresholds weeks ahead
Patch Planning	Piecing together notes and patches	CoPilot chat suggests relevant support packages proactively

Now, routine checks take me 30 minutes instead of half a day. The rest of my time goes into designing system landscapes, exploring new Fiori apps, and mentoring colleagues on SAP BTP best practices.

5. Key Takeaways and Best Practices

1. Start with built-in features: I began by enabling EWA’s predictive alerts before tackling custom models.
2. Ensure clean data: Models only learn from quality data—archive old logs and prune irrelevant entries.
3. Embed insights in your Launchpad: Surfacing AI findings where admins already work drives higher usage.
4. Refine models regularly: I retrain my anomaly detector monthly to include new error types we uncover.
5. Mind governance: Coordinate with security teams to keep log data contained within your network.

6. Conclusion: Emerging as an AI-Driven Strategist

AI hasn’t sidelined my expertise—it’s amplified it. My focus has shifted from “putting out fires” to crafting proactive strategies. I still manage transports, patch kernels, and secure landscapes—but now I do so armed with foresight. Embracing AI has elevated my role from a maintenance specialist to an intelligent-operations strategist, and that feels like a thrilling step into the future.

How AI Is Rewriting My Role as a SAP Basis Admin

 In the early days, my work revolved around manual monitoring, log reviews, and reactive troubleshooting. But with AI now embedded across SAP’s landscape, my role has shifted dramatically. Intelligent tools handle repetitive tasks like system health checks, performance alerts, and even patch recommendations. I’ve gone from firefighting to strategic planning.

AI doesn’t just automate—it anticipates. It flags configuration issues before they escalate, suggests fixes based on historical patterns, and even learns from user behavior to optimize system settings. This shift has allowed me to focus on architecture, scalability, and innovation, rather than just keeping the lights on.

Performance and Maintenance: My Checklist for a Healthy Fiori Landscape

 Once Fiori was live, I shifted focus to keeping it fast and stable. That meant monitoring performance, applying patches, and keeping the UI layer lean.

Key OSS Note:
📌 SAP Note 3083667 – SAPUI5 Application Index Rebuild
This note explains how to rebuild the SAPUI5 app index, which is crucial for Launchpad performance and app loading.

Deep Dive:

• I scheduled regular index rebuilds using report /UI5/APP_INDEX_CALCULATE.
• The note helped me understand how outdated indexes slow down tile rendering.
• I also used /UI2/INVALIDATE_GLOBAL_CACHES to clear Launchpad cache when needed.

My Takeaway:
This OSS Note is my go-to for keeping Fiori responsive. It’s not just about setup—it’s about ongoing care.

Routing and Security: How I Connected Fiori to the Backend Safely

 Fiori’s frontend is only half the story. Connecting it securely to the backend—especially in a hub deployment—requires careful routing and trust setup.

Key OSS Note:
📌 SAP Note 1798979 – Trusted RFC Setup Between Frontend and Backend
This note explains how to configure trusted RFC communication between the Fiori Front-end Server and the backend system.

Deep Dive:

• I followed the note to set up RFC destinations using transaction SM59.
• It guided me through setting up SSO and trusted authentication.
• I also configured SAP Web Dispatcher routing rules based on the note’s examples.

My Takeaway:
Security and connectivity go hand-in-hand. This OSS Note helped me avoid common pitfalls like broken trust relationships and login prompts.

Custom Roles, Custom Apps: My Guide to Tailored Fiori Activation

Standard roles are great, but real-world users often need custom combinations. That’s where I had to build tailored catalogs and groups, and activate only the apps they actually use.

Key OSS Note:
📌 SAP Note 2947824 – SAP Fiori FCM Content Activation Task List
This note introduces SAP_FIORI_FCM_CONTENT_ACTIVATION, which supports flexible content activation for custom business roles.

Deep Dive:

• It explains how to select only the apps relevant to your custom role.
• I used /UI2/CHIP to manage tiles and /UI2/FLPCM_CONF to configure Launchpad pages.
• The note also covers how to handle missing services and troubleshoot catalog mismatches.

My Takeaway:
This OSS Note gave me control over the Fiori experience. Instead of overwhelming users with unnecessary apps, I delivered exactly what they needed.

Activating SAP Fiori Apps: My Workflow for Business Role Enablement

 Once the base was ready, I moved on to activating apps for specific business roles. This wasn’t just about turning things on—it was about aligning apps with user needs and backend data.

Key OSS Note:
📌 SAP Note 2834415 – SAP Fiori Content Activation Task List
This note introduces the task list SAP_FIORI_CONTENT_ACTIVATION, which streamlines the activation of standard Fiori apps tied to SAP-delivered roles.

Deep Dive:

• It walks through selecting roles like “Accounts Payable Manager” or “Sales Order Processing.”
• The note explains how to validate OData services and UI5 components.
• I used /IWFND/MAINT_SERVICE to check service activation and /UI2/FLPD_CUST to verify Launchpad tiles.

My Takeaway:
This note helped me avoid the trap of manually activating hundreds of apps. It’s a must-read before rolling out Fiori to end users.

Getting Started with SAP Fiori: My Admin Blueprint for a Clean Setup

 

Overview:
When I first tackled SAP Fiori, I realized it wasn’t just a UI upgrade—it was a shift in how users interact with SAP. As a Basis admin, my job was to ensure the foundation was solid. That meant understanding the architecture, preparing the landscape, and activating the right components.

Key OSS Note:
📌 SAP Note 2886433 – SAP Fiori Foundation S4 Task List
This note outlines the task list SAP_FIORI_FOUNDATION_S4, which automates the activation of core Fiori components in S/4HANA. It saved me hours of manual work by bundling services, roles, and Launchpad configurations into one guided process.

Deep Dive:

• The note explains prerequisites like SAP_UI and Gateway setup.
• It includes a checklist for verifying activated services and catalogs.
• I used transaction STC01 to run the task list and monitored logs for errors.

My Takeaway:
Start with the foundation. This OSS Note is your launchpad—it ensures the system is ready before you even touch the apps.

How i use copilot

 Think of Copilot as a digital companion that’s more than just a chatbot. It’s designed to work alongside you, not just answer questions, but actually help you get things done. Whether you're writing a report, analyzing data, managing projects, or just trying to make sense of your inbox, Copilot steps in with intelligent suggestions, summaries, and even automation.

What makes it different from traditional assistants is how deeply it’s woven into the tools you already use—like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. It doesn’t just sit on the sidelines; it’s right there in the document or spreadsheet, helping you write, calculate, or organize without switching apps or breaking your flow.

It understands context, too. So if you’re working on a presentation and you’ve got notes scattered across emails and documents, Copilot can pull those pieces together and help you shape them into something coherent. It’s like having a super-organized colleague who never sleeps and always knows where everything is.

And it’s not just about productivity. Copilot can also help you think through ideas, explore topics, and even write code if you’re into development. It’s conversational, but it’s also action-oriented—ready to turn your thoughts into output.

PRINCE2 Foundation Sample Questions - this was my experience

 Here are some of the sample questions i can think off that might give you an idea how these questions look like. 

What part of a project must be clearly defined to understand what needs to be delivered? → Answer: Scope Explanation: Without knowing the boundaries of what the project is supposed to achieve, everything else—like time and cost—becomes guesswork.

Which process kicks off when the project manager asks to begin the project formally? → Answer: Initiating a Project Explanation: This is when the planning gets real—resources, risks, and goals are laid out.

Why is managing by stages helpful in PRINCE2? → Answer: It allows for regular reviews and decisions Explanation: Breaking the project into stages gives you checkpoints to assess progress and adjust if needed.

What does the 'Initiating a Project' process aim to provide? → Answer: A solid foundation for the project to proceed Explanation: It’s like laying the groundwork before building a house—you need clarity before action.

What must be included in the quality management approach? → Answer: Definition of quality records Explanation: You need to know what proof you'll collect to show quality standards were met.

In which process are team-level plans created? → Answer: Managing Product Delivery Explanation: This is where the delivery teams figure out how they’ll get their part of the job done.

What can happen during the 'Managing a Stage Boundary' process? → Answer: Create an exception plan if needed Explanation: If things go off track, this is where you pause and replan before moving forward.

How is the 'Learn from Experience' principle applied? → Answer: By using past lessons to improve current decisions Explanation: PRINCE2 encourages learning from both wins and mistakes—so you don’t repeat them.

What’s the role of the Project Board during the project? → Answer: Provide direction and make key decisions Explanation: They’re like the steering committee—keeping the project aligned with business goals.

What’s the purpose of the Business Case? → Answer: To justify the project’s value and viability Explanation: It answers the big question: “Is this project worth doing?”

What does the 'Controlling a Stage' process help the project manager do? → Answer: Monitor progress and take corrective actions Explanation: It’s the day-to-day management of the current stage.

What’s a key benefit of using PRINCE2’s product-based planning? → Answer: It ensures clarity on what needs to be delivered Explanation: You start with the end in mind—what products are needed—and build your plan around that.

What does the 'Starting Up a Project' process ensure? → Answer: That the project is viable before investing too much effort Explanation: It’s like a pre-check before you commit resources.

What is a project’s tolerance? → Answer: The allowable deviation from the plan Explanation: It’s the wiggle room you give the team before escalation is needed.

What’s the purpose of the Configuration Management Strategy? → Answer: To control and track project products Explanation: It helps you know what version of a product is where and who’s responsible for it.

What’s the role of the Team Manager? → Answer: Deliver assigned products within agreed parameters Explanation: They’re the hands-on manager making sure the work gets done as planned.

What’s the purpose of the 'Directing a Project' process? → Answer: To enable the Project Board to make decisions without getting into daily details Explanation: It keeps governance strong but not micromanaged.

What is a Work Package? → Answer: A detailed description of work assigned to a team Explanation: It’s like a mini-contract between the project manager and the delivery team.

What’s the purpose of the 'Closing a Project' process? → Answer: To confirm everything is complete and hand over the results Explanation: It’s the wrap-up—making sure nothing is left hanging.

What does the 'Quality Theme' focus on? → Answer: Ensuring products meet requirements Explanation: It’s not just about doing work—it’s about doing it right.

How I Applied SAP S/4HANA 2023 in Real Business Scenarios

 Once installed, I rolled out SAP S/4HANA 2023 across various departments:

• Finance: I activated Intelligent Cash Application to automate payment matching and improve cash flow visibility.

• Supply Chain: I used Predictive Demand Forecasting to fine-tune inventory and production planning.

• Procurement: I implemented Central Procurement to unify purchasing across business units.

• Asset Management: I deployed Maintenance Management and Resource Scheduling to streamline equipment servicing.

• HR: I enabled My Timesheet and My Team Calendar to simplify time tracking and team coordination.

These implementations showcased how S/4HANA 2023 enhances operations with real-time analytics, AI-driven insights, and a user-friendly interface.

SAP Notes I Consulted During Setup of S/4hana 2023

 SAP Notes were essential for guiding the installation and avoiding known issues. Here are the key ones I followed:

• 2235581 – Listed supported operating systems for SAP HANA.

• 2399995 – Detailed hardware requirements for SAP HANA 2.0.

• 2655761 – Provided revision recommendations and restrictions for SAP HANA.

• 2600030 – Offered parameter tuning advice for HANA environments.

• 2217489 – Explained how to maintain the SAP Fiori Front-End Server.

• 2590653 – Outlined deployment models for SAP Fiori with S/4HANA.

• 3005190 – Helped me choose the right SAPUI5 version.

• 3280679 – Warned about incompatible ABAP changes between releases.

• 3108303 and 2684254 – Gave OS-level tuning tips for RHEL and SLES.

These notes helped me configure the system correctly and stay aligned with SAP’s best practices.

Software and Technical Components I Installed To get SAP S/4HANA 2023 running

 

 I deployed several critical software elements:

• Operating System: I used SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP3, which is officially supported and optimized for SAP workloads.

• Database: I installed SAP HANA 2.0 SPS07, ensuring compatibility with the S/4HANA 2023 release.

• Application Layer: The core S/4HANA 2023 system was restored from backup files, requiring around 100GB of disk space.

• Front-End Components: I added SAP Fiori Front-End Server 2023, including SAPUI5 version 1.114, later upgraded to 1.120.

• Additional Tools: I configured SAP Web Dispatcher for traffic routing and used SAP Fiori Launchpad Designer to tailor the user interface. I also set up the SAP Migration Cockpit for data transfer from legacy systems.

All components were downloaded from the SAP Software Center and validated through the Maintenance Planner. I also applied recommended OS settings from SAP Notes to ensure optimal performance.

How I Carried Out the SAP S/4HANA 2023 Installation

 I kicked off the SAP S/4HANA 2023 setup by preparing the system infrastructure. After confirming that the hardware met SAP’s specifications—especially memory and CPU—I installed SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP3, which is optimized for SAP HANA.

Using the SAP Maintenance Planner, I created a stack XML file that outlined all necessary components. This file guided the installation via the Software Provisioning Manager (SWPM). I extracted the SWPM archive with SAPCAR and launched the installer using the stack file.

I chose a co-deployed gateway model to simplify the architecture, especially for testing environments. During the installation, I followed the “Typical” configuration path, which pre-filled most parameters, though I reviewed and adjusted them before finalizing.

After installing SAP HANA 2.0 SPS07, I restored the S/4HANA system using the provided backup files. I placed the kernel files in a dedicated directory to speed up the process. Once the system was up, I applied kernel patches and activated key services like the SAP Fiori Launchpad.

How to install SAP fiori

 

1. How I Set Up SAP Fiori

I successfully deployed SAP Fiori by following a structured approach that covered both the front-end and back-end systems. I began by confirming that all prerequisites were met—such as the correct SAP NetWeaver version, Gateway services, and UI components. Using the SAP Maintenance Planner, I downloaded the necessary packages and ensured all dependencies were addressed.

Next, I installed the SAP Fiori Front-End Server and configured the SAP Web Dispatcher to manage traffic securely. I added the relevant UI components based on the business modules I needed—like ERP or CRM—and activated the required OData services. Finally, I set up the Fiori Launchpad, which now serves as the central access point for all my Fiori applications.

📦 2. Software Components I Installed

To get SAP Fiori running smoothly, I installed several key software elements:

• On the front-end, I added SAP_UI and SAP_GWFND to support the user interface and data services. I also configured the SAP Web Dispatcher to handle incoming requests.

• On the back-end, I included add-ons for ERP, CRM, and other business suites, depending on the apps I planned to use.

• I ensured the system was running on a compatible SAP NetWeaver ABAP stack and added KPI Modeler for analytical apps.

All installations were done using SAP’s recommended tools like the Maintenance Planner and Software Update Manager, which helped streamline the process and avoid manual errors.

📑 3. SAP Notes That Guided Me

Throughout the setup, I relied on several SAP Notes to ensure everything was configured correctly and up to date:

• 2217489 helped me understand how to maintain and update the Fiori Front-End Server.

• 2590653 provided deployment strategies for integrating Fiori with SAP S/4HANA.

• 2436567 offered guidance on UI configuration for core applications.

• 2658822 explained enhancements and limitations in the SAP GUI for HTML.

• 3005190 helped me choose the right SAPUI5 version for long-term support.

• 3280679 warned me about incompatible changes between ABAP releases.

These notes were essential for avoiding common pitfalls and aligning my setup with SAP’s best practices.

🌐 4. Where I Use SAP Fiori

After installation, I began using SAP Fiori across different departments to improve workflows and user experience:

• In finance, I enabled apps for invoice approvals and expense tracking.

• In procurement, I used apps to monitor supplier performance and delivery timelines.

• In HR, I rolled out tools for onboarding, leave requests, and performance reviews.

• For customer service, I built a portal where users could track orders and submit inquiries.

• I also integrated Fiori with external platforms, allowing users to access multiple systems through a single interface.

These implementations made processes more efficient and user-friendly, especially on mobile devices.

How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming SAP Basis — My Perspective

 Working in SAP Basis used to mean long hours of manual monitoring, troubleshooting, and system tuning. But with the rise of AI integration, things have started to shift — and in a good way. I’ve seen firsthand how intelligent automation is changing the way we manage SAP systems.

1. Routine Tasks? Let AI Handle Them

AI has taken over many of the repetitive jobs that used to fill up my day. Tasks like checking system logs, cleaning up spool requests, and unlocking user accounts can now be automated using smart scripts and bots. This means I can focus on more strategic work instead of constantly reacting to minor issues.

2. Predictive Monitoring Is a Game-Changer

Instead of waiting for something to break, AI tools now help us predict potential failures. By analyzing system behavior and historical data, they can alert us to risks like memory leaks or performance drops before they happen. This proactive approach has helped us avoid unexpected downtime more than once.

3. Smarter Performance Tuning

AI doesn’t just monitor — it optimizes. It studies how users interact with the system and adjusts resources like memory and CPU allocation automatically. I’ve seen reports run faster and month-end processes become smoother, all thanks to AI-driven adjustments.

4. Enhanced Security Oversight

Security is another area where AI shines. It monitors login patterns, flags suspicious activity, and even helps enforce compliance rules. I’ve seen it catch unauthorized access attempts that would’ve slipped past manual checks.

5. Intelligent Dashboards for Better Visibility

Modern AI tools integrate with SAP monitoring platforms to provide smart dashboards. These visual tools help me quickly spot issues, track performance trends, and plan upgrades. It’s like having a digital assistant that’s always watching over the system.

Why I Never Skip the SAP Readiness Check Before an S/4HANA Conversion

 When our team began planning our move to SAP S/4HANA, one tool became our compass: the SAP Readiness Check. At first, I thought it was just another checklist — but it turned out to be the most critical part of our pre-conversion strategy. Here’s why I consider it non-negotiable.

🔍 It Gives You a Clear Picture of Your Current System

The Readiness Check analyzes your existing SAP ERP system and highlights everything that could impact your migration. It looks at:

• Active business functions

• Installed add-ons and their compatibility

• Custom code usage and potential conflicts

• Data volume and system sizing

• Recommended Fiori apps

• Simplification items that require attention

Without this report, you’re essentially flying blind into a complex transformation.

⚠️ It Helps You Spot Risks Early

One of the biggest advantages? Risk mitigation. The report flags outdated transactions, deprecated tables, and incompatible extensions — all before you start the actual conversion. This means fewer surprises during testing and go-live.

🧠 It Supports Smarter Decision-Making

The dashboard and downloadable report give you actionable insights. You can prioritize remediation tasks, estimate effort, and align your technical and functional teams around a shared roadmap. It’s not just a technical tool — it’s a strategic one.

🛠️ It’s the Foundation for Planning

Whether you're using SAP Activate or another methodology, the Readiness Check feeds directly into your planning phase. It helps define your scope, timeline, and resource needs. For us, it even influenced our decision to go with a hybrid deployment model.

SAP S/4HANA 1709 Installation Files: What I Used and How I Got Them

 When I prepared for the installation of SAP S/4HANA 1709, I quickly realized that having the right set of files was half the battle. SAP doesn’t just give you one big installer — it’s a collection of components that need to be downloaded, extracted, and installed in a specific order. Here’s how I tackled it.

📦 Step 1: Planning with Maintenance Planner

Before downloading anything, I used SAP Maintenance Planner to generate a stack XML file. This file outlines the exact components and versions required for your system — including the S/4HANA core, HANA database, kernel, and SAP NetWeaver stack. Without this, you risk downloading mismatched or outdated files.

📥 Step 2: Downloading the Installation Media

From the SAP Software Download Center, I pulled the following essential packages:

• SWPM (Software Provisioning Manager) This is the tool that orchestrates the installation. I used the latest version compatible with NetWeaver 7.5.

• SAP S/4HANA 1709 Installation Export Files These are the core application files, typically split into multiple .RAR or .TGZ parts — around 120GB total. They include:

  • S4CORE (application server)

  • DBDATA, DBEXE, DBLOG (HANA database archives)

  • SAPCAR utility for extraction

• SAP Kernel Files I downloaded the Unicode kernel for Linux x86_64, matching the version specified in the stack XML.

• SAP HANA Database Installation Files If you’re installing a new HANA DB, you’ll need the full HANA 2.0 SPS01 or higher installation media. I used hdblcm to install and configure it.

• SAP Host Agent Required for system monitoring and lifecycle management.

• SAP Fiori Front-End Server (optional) If you’re enabling Fiori apps, you’ll need the UI components and gateway configuration files.

🗂️ Step 3: Organizing the Files

I created a dedicated directory structure:

Code

/sapmedia/S4HANA_1709/
├── SWPM/
├── Kernel/
├── HANA_DB/
├── Export/
├── SAPCAR/

This helped me keep everything clean and easy to reference during installation.

🧪 Step 4: Installation Sequence

Using SWPM, I selected Standard System Installation and pointed it to the extracted export files. The tool guided me through:

• Database setup

• Application server configuration

• Importing ABAP loads

• Post-installation steps like client creation and transport setup

Smart Code Migration Tools vs. CCMSIDB

 There are plenty of third-party tools out there, but I still rely on SAP’s native CCMSIDB and Worklist for custom code migration. This post compares tools and explains why I stick with SAP’s approach.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Overview of Smart Code Migration tools on the market Tools like Diligent’s SCM offer automation and dashboards.

• Strengths of CCMSIDB and SAP’s native approach Direct integration with SAP Notes, full transparency, and no licensing costs.

• Where third-party tools shine Faster remediation, better UI, and audit-ready documentation.

• Why I prefer CCMSIDB for initial analysis It’s SAP-certified, release-specific, and deeply tied to the Simplification Database.

• How I combine both approaches I use CCMSIDB for scoping and third-party tools for execution.

• Final thoughts on tool selection Choose based on your team’s skillset, budget, and migration timeline.

Combined CCMSIDB with ABAP Test Cockpit for S/4HANA Readiness

 ATC errors used to overwhelm our team — until we integrated them with CCMSIDB insights. This post explains how I built a workflow that turned chaos into clarity.

Subtopics & Answers:

• What is the ABAP Test Cockpit (ATC) and how it complements CCMSIDB ATC flags syntax and performance issues, while CCMSIDB highlights functional incompatibilities.

• Running ATC checks before and after remediation We used central check systems and custom variants to scan our entire codebase.

• Mapping ATC errors to Simplification Database entries I explain how we linked ATC findings to SAP Notes for targeted fixes.

• Creating a remediation dashboard We built a simple ALV report combining ATC results and CCMSIDB flags.

• Tracking progress and avoiding regression Automated checks helped us catch reintroduced issues during transports.

• My tips for managing large volumes of ATC errors Prioritize by usage, business impact, and technical complexity.

SAP Custom Code Migration Worklist in Action

 This post is a hands-on walkthrough of how I used the Custom Code Migration Worklist to prepare our SAP system for S/4HANA. It’s packed with screenshots, transaction codes, and real-world examples.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Launching the Worklist and importing required data I used SYCM transactions to load both simplification info and repository analysis results.

• Understanding the ALV report layout Columns include object type, impacted area, SAP Note reference, and remediation status.

• Filtering and sorting for actionable insights I created custom views to isolate high-priority objects and grouped them by module.

• Exporting the worklist to Excel for team collaboration We used the XLS export to assign tasks and track progress across development teams.

• Using SAP Notes to guide code changes Each object linked to a note with code samples and migration instructions.

• Final validation and ATC checks We ran post-remediation ATC scans to ensure compliance and performance.

How I Made It Work for Our SAP Custom Code Cleanup

 I used to think the Simplification Database was just a static reference — until I realized it’s the backbone of smart custom code migration. This post explains how I leveraged it to guide our ABAP remediation process.

Subtopics & Answers:

• What is the Simplification Database and how it’s structured It contains metadata about changed SAP objects, linked SAP Notes, and migration guidance.

• How to download and install it properly I followed SAP Note 2241080 and used the standard upload programs in NetWeaver 7.5.

• Using the database to identify impacted custom code We mapped our Z-objects against simplified objects and flagged those using deprecated tables like VBFA and KONV.

• Navigating SAP Notes for technical guidance Each flagged object linked to a note explaining what changed and how to adapt our code.

• Integrating UPL and where-used lists for deeper analysis Usage data helped us ignore unused code and focus on what really mattered.

• My advice for teams new to the Simplification Database Don’t treat it as optional — it’s your best friend during S/4HANA prep.

Cloud vs. On-Prem S/4HANA: Why We Chose Private Cloud

 When our leadership debated between on-prem and cloud deployment for S/4HANA, I was asked to weigh in. This post explains why we chose SAP S/4HANA Cloud, private edition, and how it changed my role as a Basis admin.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Deployment options explained On-prem, public cloud, private cloud — I break down the differences.

• Why private cloud made sense for us We needed control, compliance, and flexibility — without full infrastructure overhead.

• How Basis responsibilities shift in the cloud Less OS-level work, more focus on monitoring, integration, and SLAs.

• Working with hyperscalers and SAP ECS I share how we coordinated with Azure and SAP’s Enterprise Cloud Services team.

• Security, backups, and patching in the cloud Automated but still needs oversight — I explain what admins still manage.

• What I miss (and love) about cloud Basis work No more hardware headaches, but deeper collaboration with functional teams.

Custom Code in S/4HANA: How I Cleaned Up 10 Years of Z-Programs

 Our ECC system had over 4,000 custom objects — and converting to S/4HANA meant cleaning house. This blog is my guide to custom code analysis, remediation, and survival during conversion.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Running the Custom Code Migration App It flagged obsolete functions, deprecated tables, and syntax issues.

• How we categorized and prioritized fixes We used ATC checks and grouped code by business impact.

• Replacing legacy transactions and tables I explain how we adapted Z-reports that relied on VBFA, KONV, and others.

• Working with developers and functional teams Collaboration was key — we held daily stand-ups and tracked fixes in Jira.

• Testing and validation strategies We built test scripts for each module and used eCATT for automation.

• What I learned about clean core strategy Less is more — and extensibility beats modification.

Accelerating S/4HANA Conversion with SAP Activate

 I used to think SAP Activate was just another buzzword — until I followed it step-by-step during our S/4HANA conversion. This post is my practical guide to using the methodology to streamline planning, execution, and post-go-live success.

Subtopics & Answers:

• What SAP Activate really is A structured framework with phases: Discover, Prepare, Explore, Realize, Deploy, and Run.

• How we used the roadmap viewer It helped us align stakeholders, track deliverables, and avoid scope creep.

• Fit-to-standard vs. blueprinting We ditched traditional blueprinting and embraced workshops — and it worked.

• Key tools: Best Practices Explorer, Solution Manager, and SAP Cloud ALM I explain how each tool supported our conversion.

• Managing change and user adoption Activate includes change management — we used it to train 300+ users.

• Why Activate saved us time and money Clear milestones, reusable templates, and fewer surprises.

Understanding the SAP S/4HANA Conversion Architecture

 As a Basis consultant, I’ve done multiple S/4HANA conversions — and each one taught me something new about the architecture. This blog is my technical deep dive into what changes under the hood when you move to S/4HANA.

Subtopics & Answers:

• How S/4HANA differs from ECC at the system level Simplified data models, removal of legacy tables, and HANA-native optimizations.

• Database migration and sizing strategy We used DBACOCKPIT and Quick Sizer to plan our HANA memory footprint.

• Changes in transport management and client strategy STMS remains, but client-dependent objects behave differently post-conversion.

• Impact on background jobs and batch processing SM37 cleanup and rescheduling was critical to avoid performance bottlenecks.

• New monitoring tools and dashboards Fiori-based admin apps and enhanced Solution Manager integration.

• Security and role redesign SU24 updates, Fiori catalog mapping, and new authorization concepts.

My SAP ECC to S/4HANA Conversion Journey: What Worked, What Broke, and What I’d Do Differently

 When our company finally committed to converting from ECC to S/4HANA, I was both excited and terrified. This post is a full breakdown of our conversion experience — from planning to go-live — with honest insights into what went smoothly and what nearly derailed us.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Why we chose system conversion over new implementation We had years of custom development and master data we couldn’t afford to rebuild.

• Pre-checks and readiness assessment Using SAP Readiness Check helped us identify incompatible add-ons and obsolete transactions.

• Key technical steps in the conversion SUM tool, database migration to HANA, and custom code remediation — I explain each phase.

• Challenges we faced Unicode conversion, downtime planning, and adapting to Fiori apps.

• Post-conversion stabilization Performance tuning, user training, and fixing broken interfaces.

• Lessons learned and advice for others Start early, document everything, and don’t underestimate te

Mastering SAP Basis Automation: How I Cut Admin Time by 60%

 Manual tasks used to eat up my day — until I embraced automation. This post is my guide to automating SAP Basis tasks using scripts, scheduling tools, and smart monitoring.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Why automation matters in Basis Reduces human error, saves time, and improves consistency.

• Daily tasks I automated User unlocks, system health checks, and log archiving.

• Tools I use (SAP-native and external) SM36, cron jobs, PowerShell, and Python — with sample scripts.

• Automating transport approvals and imports How we built a workflow using CTS+ and email triggers.

• Monitoring and alerting automation CCMS thresholds, email alerts, and integration with Opsgenie.

• My results and ROI I share how automation freed up 20 hours/month and improved SLA compliance.

Upgrading SAP Kernel Without Downtime: My Step-by-Step Guide

 Kernel upgrades used to terrify me — until I mastered the process. This blog walks through how I now upgrade SAP kernels with minimal disruption and maximum confidence.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Why kernel upgrades matter Security patches, performance improvements, and compatibility fixes.

• Pre-upgrade prep Checking OS versions, backup strategies, and downloading the right SAR files.

• Live kernel switch vs. downtime upgrade I explain both methods and when to use each.

• Step-by-step upgrade process From extracting the kernel to updating profiles and restarting services.

• Post-upgrade validation SM51 checks, version confirmation, and log analysis.

• Rollback plan and contingency tips How I prepare for failure scenarios — and the one time I had to roll back.

Building a Clean SAP Landscape: My Blueprint for Stable System Architecture

 When I joined my current company, our SAP landscape was a mess — overlapping clients, inconsistent transport paths, and no naming conventions. This post is how I rebuilt it from the ground up.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Designing a logical 3-tier landscape (DEV, QAS, PRD) Why we added a sandbox and how we structured our transport routes.

• Client strategy and naming conventions I explain how we standardized client numbers and roles across systems.

• Transport management best practices STMS setup, transport groups, and how we avoid overwriting changes.

• System monitoring and alerting CCMS, Solution Manager, and third-party tools we integrated.

• Backup and disaster recovery planning Our weekly backup schedule, retention policy, and restore drills.

• Documentation and governance How we created SOPs and change control boards to keep things clean.

Troubleshooting SAP Basis Like a Pro: My Go-To Fixes for Common Errors

 After 12 years in SAP Basis, I’ve seen it all — from mysterious dumps to locked transports. This blog is my personal toolkit of fixes for the most common and frustrating SAP Basis issues.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Login issues and locked users SU01 vs. SU10, and how to unlock users without compromising security.

• Transport errors and stuck queues I explain how I clean up STMS buffers and resolve “RC 8” failures.

• Spool and printing problems Troubleshooting SPAD, missing output devices, and spool overflow.

• System performance bottlenecks Using ST02, ST04, and SM50 to pinpoint memory and CPU issues.

• RFC and gateway errors Diagnosing SMGW logs and fixing “connection refused” messages.

• My favorite diagnostic transactions and scripts A curated list of tools and commands I use weekly — with real examples.

How I Survived My First SAP S/4HANA Installation: Lessons from the Frontline

 When I was tasked with leading my company’s first SAP S/4HANA installation, I thought I was ready. Spoiler: I wasn’t. This post is my honest breakdown of the entire process — from planning and prep to post-installation troubleshooting.

Subtopics & Answers:

• Pre-installation checklist: What I wish I’d double-checked Hardware sizing, OS compatibility, and kernel patch levels were critical — and easy to overlook.

• Choosing the right deployment model (on-prem vs. cloud) We went hybrid, and I explain why — plus the pros and cons of each.

• Installation steps and common pitfalls SWPM hiccups, missing dependencies, and how I resolved a failed database connection.

• Post-installation configuration STMS setup, client creation, and initial transport landscape — all covered.

• Performance tuning after go-live I share how I optimized memory parameters and reduced dialog response time by 40%.

• Lessons learned and what I’d do differently next time Documentation, stakeholder communication, and backup strategies — the real MVPs.

Preparing for S/4HANA Conversion and the MUST know items

When we were planning to upgrade from SAP ECC6 EHP8 to S/4HANA 2023 we gather all necessary tools, files, and documentation in advance. 

Must-Have Tools - atleast to my experience

Download and check if these are available

• Maintenance Planner – Helps design your upgrade path and generates stack XML files.

• Software Update Manager (SUM) – Facilitates the technical migration and database switch.

• Simplification Item Check Tool – Identifies outdated or incompatible features.

• SAP Readiness Check – Evaluates system health, custom code, and data volumes.

• Custom Code Migration Utility – Assists in adapting ABAP code for S/4HANA.

• SAP Note Analyzer – Automates downloading and applying required SAP Notes.

SAP Notes that was most relevant based on master guide and other installation sources

Note Number	Description
2596411	Conversion guide for S/4HANA
2974663	Details on simplification checks
2502552	SUM tool usage for conversion
3081996	Maintenance Planner setup
2214409	Custom code migration steps
3059197	S/4HANA 2023 release info
2925563	Readiness Check instructions

Software that is required at that time, 

Make sure to download:

• S/4HANA 2023 installation files – Including kernel, database, and core components.

• SAP GUI and Fiori front-end packages – For post-upgrade access and testing.

• Language packs and industry-specific add-ons – If applicable to your ECC setup.

Testing & QA is required and don't miss it.

• Data validation tools – For post-conversion consistency checks.

• Test scripts and scenarios – Reuse your ECC test cases in the new system.

Documentation to Keep in case when done in DEV system which can be used as a reference.

Download guides and references such as:

• S/4HANA 2023 conversion manuals

• Migration roadmaps

• Step-by-step upgrade instructions

How to Address SAP Performance Problems

 Improving SAP performance means identifying the root cause—whether it's slow code, database overload, or system misconfiguration. Here's a streamlined approach:

🔍 Step 1: Diagnose the Problem

Use SAP’s built-in tools to investigate:

• SM37 – Review background job runtimes.

• ST12 / SAT – Trace and analyze slow-running programs.

• STAD – Check transaction response times.

• DB02 / DBACOCKPIT – Monitor database health and performance.

First, determine if the issue affects the whole system or just specific users or transactions.

⚙️ Step 2: Fix Common Issues

🧩 Database Bottlenecks

• Look for inefficient queries or missing indexes.

• Fixes: Tune SQL, refresh statistics, and consider table partitioning.

🧑‍💻 Custom ABAP Code

• Watch out for nested loops or poor logic.

• Fixes: Refactor code using SAP’s performance best practices.

🖥️ Hardware & Network

• Check for CPU strain or memory shortages.

• Fixes: Upgrade hardware or optimize network settings.

🧰 Step 3: Tune System Settings

• Adjust buffers and enable parallel processing.

• Use caching wisely.

• Perform regular housekeeping: clean logs, archive old data, defragment disks.

📈 Step 4: Monitor Key Metrics

Track:

• System load (CPU, memory)

• Database usage

• Transaction speed

Use these insights to prevent future slowdowns.