Instances

SAP instances are defined during the installation of the SAP system.

An SAP instance defines a group of resources such as memory, work processes and so on, usually in support of a single application server or database server within a client/server environment. Application servers share the same memory areas and are controlled by the same dispatcher process.

An SAP instance is handled by CCMS as a unit. A user logs on to the SAP system using an instance.

An SAP system can consist of one or more instances, such as an SAP system with a single instance with only one central server or a client/server system with two or more separate instances.

For each SAP instance:

• Separate directories are defined on the UNIX, AS/400, or Microsoft Windows NT server on which the instance is to run

• It can use shared file systems

• Entries are created in operating system configuration files ( /etc/services, /etc/sapconfig...)

• Communication entries are created in the host

• Start and system profiles are created

• Operating system users are installed

• Creating an Instance Definition for All Servers

• Prerequisites for Starting Remote Instances

• Creating an Instance Definition for a Server

• Consistency Checks

• Monitoring Servers and Work Processes