3801240 - import data connection to s/4hana returns 401 unauthorized (authentication_error) - sap analytics cloud

• Import Data connection from SAP Analytics Cloud to SAP S/4HANA fails.
• Error message: AUTHENTICATION_ERROR.
• Error details: status: 401; Unauthorized Unauthorized.
• Message shown indicates that the system cannot connect to the data source and asks to check connection details and user credentials.

• SAP Analytics Cloud 2026.15.6

1. Open SAP Analytics Cloud and create or use an Import Data connection to SAP S/4HANA (OData).
2. Attempt to connect using the configured authentication method and user.
3. The connection fails with AUTHENTICATION_ERROR and returns HTTP 401 Unauthorized.

In this case, the issue is caused by communication user getting locked at S/4 hana cloud side.

Unlocking the communication user solved the issue.

• refer to: Process Navigator scope item 1YB
• refer to: SAP Gateway Foundation Developer Guide

SAC, SAP Analytics Cloud, Import Data connection, S/4HANA, OData, 401, Unauthorized, AUTHENTICATION_ERROR, communication user, SAP_COMM_USER, Communication Arrangement, authentication failure, connection error, HAR trace, console log , KBA , LOD-ANA-AQU , Import Data Connections (Acquiring Data) , Problem