SAP Security Patch Day is a critical event where SAP releases patches addressing security vulnerabilities. However, applying patches alone is not enough to ensure a robust security posture. Proper security configuration, especially tuning security parameters, plays a vital role in protecting SAP systems against threats.
This article focuses on the importance of configuring security parameters, common SAP security settings to review during Patch Day, and best practices to enhance your system’s defense.
Security parameters are configurable settings within the SAP system that control system behavior, access, communication, and auditing. These parameters determine how the system responds to potential threats and enforce security policies.
They can be configured at various levels such as:
login/min_password_lng (minimum password length), login/password_expiration_time, and login/fails_to_session_end (account lockout) enforce strong password rules.snc/enable, snc/identity/as) to enforce SSL/TLS.auth/failed_logon_attempts).security/audit_log).ssl/client_* and ssl/server_* parameters enforce secure HTTPS communication.rdisp/rfc_max_login.Review SAP Notes and Recommendations
Each Security Note often includes parameter adjustments necessary to mitigate the addressed vulnerability.
Backup Current Settings
Before changes, export and document existing parameter values.
Test Changes in Non-Production Systems
Validate the impact of parameter changes on system behavior and business processes.
Apply Changes via SAP Profile Parameters or Transaction RZ10
Adjust parameters at instance or system level accordingly.
Restart SAP Instances if Required
Some parameters require a system restart to take effect.
Monitor System Logs and Performance
Ensure changes do not negatively affect system stability.
Configuring security parameters is a critical, ongoing task that complements SAP Security Patch Day efforts. Proper tuning of these parameters helps close security gaps, enforces organizational policies, and ensures your SAP environment remains resilient against attacks.
By integrating security parameter configuration with patch management, organizations can significantly strengthen their overall SAP security framework.