An external command is a predefined operating system command that can be executed within the R/3 System.

Both the maintenance and execution of external commands is protected with R/3 authorizations. You can maintain and execute external commands online (from the CCMS menu) or in ABAP programs, using special function modules. External commands can also be executed as a step in a background job.

As the R/3 CCMS administrator, you can modify commands and activate additional security mechanisms without having to change the program.

You can add your own commands and parameters to the variety of (predefined) commands delivered by SAP.