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Kernel Upgrade in SAP

Upgrading the SAP Kernel is an essential task to ensure your system benefits from the latest
performance improvements, security fixes, and compatibility with new SAP features. The
SAP Kernel consists of the core executable files and libraries that form the foundation of the
SAP system.

This document will guide you through the steps required to upgrade the SAP Kernel on your
SAP system.

1. Introduction to SAP Kernel Upgrade

The SAP Kernel (also called the SAP executables) is responsible for the core functionality
of the SAP system. It includes processes like the dispatcher, work processes, and other
key components that allow SAP applications to function. Kernel upgrades can fix bugs,
enhance system performance, and provide compatibility with new versions of SAP software.

An SAP Kernel upgrade involves downloading the latest Kernel version from SAP, applying it
to the system, and performing post-upgrade tasks to ensure proper functionality.

2. Pre-requisites
Before performing an SAP Kernel upgrade, ensure the following:

1. System Backup: Always back up your system and database before performing any
upgrade.

o Database Backup: Perform a full backup of your SAP database.

o File System Backup: Backup important files, including the SAP instance
directories, profiles, and kernel directories.

2. Access to SAP Support Portal: You will need access to the SAP Software Download
Center to download the latest Kernel files.

3. Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary admin permissions to update the
system. You must have access to the OS level (root or administrator) and appropriate
SAP roles like SAP_Host_Administrator.

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4. Review the SAP Kernel Compatibility: Ensure that the kernel version you are
upgrading to is compatible with the version of SAP NetWeaver or other SAP
applications you are running.

3. Steps for SAP Kernel Upgrade

Step 1: Check the Current Kernel Version

Before proceeding with the upgrade, it’s important to know which version of the SAP Kernel
is currently installed.

1. Login to SAP and use transaction SM51 to check the system information, including
the current kernel version.

2. Check Kernel Version:

o Run the following command on the operating system:

bash

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disp+work -version

o This will return the current version of the SAP Kernel installed.

Step 2: Download the Latest SAP Kernel Version

1. Log in to the SAP Software Download Center:

o Go to the SAP Software Download Center.

o Under Browse Downloads, select SAP NetWeaver or the specific version of

SAP you are using.

2. Download the Latest Kernel Version:

o Look for the SAP Kernel download files.

o Download the required kernel patch level (e.g., Kernel 7.5 or 7.6)
corresponds to your system's version.

3. Download Kernel Files:

o Download the SAR (SAP Archive) file, which contains the new kernel
executables.

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o For example, the downloaded SAR file might be named

SAP_KERNEL_7_6_2023.SAR.

Step 3: Stop SAP System

To ensure that the kernel files are properly updated, you need to stop all SAP instances
(including the central instance and application servers).

1. Stop the SAP System:

o On Linux/Unix:

bash

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sudo startsaph stop

o On Windows, stop the SAP system via the Services menu or use:

bash

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sapcontrol -nr <instance number> -function Stop

2. Stop all SAP processes:

o Stop central instance and dialog instances as needed.

o Verify that no SAP processes are running using the command:

bash

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disp+work -version

o If any processes are still running, kill them manually using kill on Unix/Linux or
Task Manager on Windows.

Step 4: Backup the Current SAP Kernel

Before replacing the existing kernel files, it’s important to back up the current kernel
directory in case you need to roll back.

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1. Backup Kernel Directory:

o On Linux/Unix:

bash

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cp -r /usr/sap/<SID>/SYS/exe/run /usr/sap/<SID>/SYS/exe/run.bak

o On Windows:

 Manually copy the run folder located in C:\usr\sap\<SID>\SYS\exe\run

to a backup directory.

Step 5: Extract and Apply the New Kernel Files

1. Extract the Kernel SAR File:

o Use the SAPCAR tool to extract the SAR file.

o On Linux/Unix:

bash

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SAPCAR -xvf SAP_KERNEL_7_6_2023.SAR

o On Windows:

 Run the SAPCAR.exe tool to extract the SAR file in the command
prompt:

cmd

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SAPCAR -xvf SAP_KERNEL_7_6_2023.SAR

2. Copy the New Kernel Files:

o After extraction, copy the new kernel files to the appropriate directory (e.g.,
/usr/sap/<SID>/SYS/exe/run on Unix/Linux or C:\usr\sap\<SID>\SYS\exe\run
on Windows).

o Replace the old kernel files with the new ones.

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Step 6: Update the Profiles (Optional)

If needed, update the instance profiles (such as DEFAULT.PFL) to reflect any changes
related to the new kernel version.

 Transaction RZ10: Use this to update the profiles and add or change any kernel-
related parameters if necessary.

o Review and adjust the kernel parameters in the profile.

Step 7: Start SAP System

Once the kernel files have been replaced, restart the SAP system.

1. Start the SAP System:

o On Linux/Unix:

bash

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sudo startsaph

o On Windows:

 Start the SAP system via Services or use the command:

bash

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sapcontrol -nr <instance number> -function Start

2. Check SAP System Logs:

o Verify that the system starts correctly and that there are no errors in the logs.

o Use Transaction SM21 to check the system log and ensure that everything is
functioning normally.

Step 8: Verify Kernel Version

After starting the system, verify that the new kernel version is active:

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1. Run Kernel Version Command:

o On Linux/Unix:

bash

Copy

disp+work -version

o On Windows, check the version from the SAP GUI using Transaction SM51.

2. Check System Logs:

o Verify that the kernel upgrade did not cause any issues by reviewing the
System Log (SM21), Developer Traces (ST11), and System Monitoring.

4. Post-upgrade Considerations
 System Performance: Monitor the system for any performance issues that might
arise after the kernel upgrade. Use transaction ST03N (Workload Analysis) to track
system performance.

 Job Monitoring: Verify that scheduled jobs are running without issues. Use
transaction SM37 to monitor the background jobs.

 SAP Support Package: After the kernel upgrade, ensure that the system is up to date
with the latest support packages and patches (if not already applied).

 Testing: Conduct thorough testing of your SAP applications to ensure there are no
compatibility issues with the new kernel.

5. Conclusion
Upgrading the SAP Kernel is an important maintenance task that ensures your SAP system
benefits from improved performance, security patches, and compatibility with the latest SAP
features. By following the steps outlined in this document, you can perform a successful
kernel upgrade and ensure minimal downtime for your SAP system.

Remember to always back up your system before performing any upgrades and perform
thorough testing to ensure that everything runs smoothly post-upgrade.

KERNEL UPGRADE RAJESH