Authorization Objects in SAP Systems

Understanding Authorization Objects in SAP Systems

In an SAP system, an "Authorization Object" is a key component that defines the permissions required for users to perform specific actions. SAP uses these authorization objects to control what users can do and access within the system. Authorization objects are defined within authorization profiles and roles, and each object has specific authorization parameters associated with it.

Key Characteristics of Authorization Objects

1. Authorization Fields: An authorization object typically contains multiple authorization fields. These fields are individual criteria that define how a particular function is restricted. For example, an authorization object might include fields like "Transaction Code" and "Organizational Level."
2. Authorization Values: Each authorization field is restricted by specific values. For instance, a user might have access only to a particular department or certain transaction codes.

How Authorization Objects Are Used

1. Authorization Roles: Authorization objects are usually assigned to roles within the SAP system. A role is a set of authorization objects that define the permissions required to perform a specific job function. Users are assigned these roles, which then grants them the corresponding permissions.
2. Authorization Checks: When a user attempts to perform an action, the SAP system checks whether the user is authorized to do so. During this check, the values in the user's assigned authorization objects are compared against the values required for the action. Programs or functions within SAP use the AUTHORITY-CHECK statement to perform these checks, and the system expects a sy-subrc value of 0 to confirm successful authorization.
3. SU21 Transaction Code: This transaction code is used to view and manage authorization objects in SAP. You can examine existing authorization objects or define new ones from here.
4. SU53 Transaction Code: If a user encounters an authorization error while attempting an action, the SU53 transaction code displays the reason for the error and the missing authorization.

Example

If a user tries to view material master data, the system will check if the user has the necessary permissions for the relevant material types and organizational levels. If the user lacks the required authorization objects or appropriate values, the action will be blocked, and an authorization error message will be displayed.

Critical Tables for SAP Security and Their Functions

In SAP systems, the tables AGR_USERS, AGR_1250, AGR_1251, and AGR_1252 store critical information about user authorizations and role configurations. These tables are crucial for SAP security because they determine user access rights and authorization profiles.

1. AGR_USERS Table

Stored Information:

• This table links users to their assigned roles.
• It contains fields like USERID (User ID) and AGR_NAME (Role Name).

Importance:

• This table is used to understand which roles are assigned to a specific user. From a security perspective, it helps determine what actions a user can perform or what data they can access within the SAP system.

2. AGR_1250 Table

Stored Information:

• This table contains the authorization objects within a role and the corresponding values assigned to them.
• It includes fields like AUTH (Authorization Object) and FIELD (Authorization Fields), along with the values VALUE.

Importance:

• This table is essential for viewing the authorizations a role possesses and how these authorizations are restricted by specific values. It is crucial for verifying that roles are correctly configured for users.

3. AGR_1251 Table

Stored Information:

• This table stores detailed information about the authorization objects and their assigned values within a role.
• It contains fields like AUTH (Authorization Object), FIELD (Authorization Fields), LOW, and HIGH (Field Values).

Importance:

• This table is used for in-depth analysis of the authorizations a role has. It is especially important during security audits to understand how an authorization object is defined within a role.

4. AGR_1252 Table

Stored Information:

• This table contains information about the menu items assigned to roles.
• It includes the configuration of menu entries, transactions, and reports within the role's menu.

Importance:

• This table helps determine what SAP menus, transaction codes, or reports a user can access through their assigned role. It is critical for understanding what actions a user can initiate within the system.

Importance of These Tables for SAP Security

These tables form the backbone of SAP security. They directly influence what users can do and access within the system. Security analysts and auditors use these tables to:

• Authorization Control: Review and audit user authorizations.
• Role Management: Analyze the authorization objects and values within roles.
• Vulnerability Detection: Identify security vulnerabilities that may arise from misconfigured roles or authorizations.
• Compliance: Ensure that user access aligns with regulatory requirements and company policies.

In summary, proper management of these tables is vital for maintaining the security and integrity of your SAP system.