In SAP, a homogeneous system copy refers to the process of duplicating an entire SAP system, including its software components, configurations, and data, from one environment to another with the same characteristics. It involves copying an SAP system to a target system, ensuring that both systems are identical and compatible.

The homogeneous system copy is typically performed for various reasons, such as system upgrades, system refreshes, disaster recovery preparations, or creating sandbox/test systems. It allows organizations to replicate an existing system setup without making any fundamental changes to the system architecture or database type.

Here are the main steps involved in performing a homogeneous system copy in SAP:

1. Preparing the source system: Before starting the system copy, it is essential to ensure that the source system is in a stable and consistent state. This includes performing necessary system checks, database backups, and ensuring the source system is free from errors or inconsistencies.
2. Preparing the target system: The target system must be prepared to receive the copied system. This involves installing the required operating system, database software, and SAP software components. The target system should be configured with the same characteristics as the source system, such as the same SAP release, support packages, and kernel level.
3. Exporting the source system: In this step, the source system’s data and configurations are exported to a storage medium, such as a network share or external hard drive. This process typically involves using SAP tools like Software Provisioning Manager (SWPM) or database-specific tools like BR*Tools or SQL Server Management Studio.
4. Importing the data to the target system: Once the export process is complete, the data is transferred from the storage medium to the target system. This step involves importing the exported files into the target system’s database. It may require executing database-specific import commands or using tools provided by SAP.
5. Post-copy activities: After the data import, several post-copy activities are performed to ensure the copied system functions correctly. This includes updating system-specific parameters, configuring network settings, adjusting database parameters, and performing system consistency checks.
6. System verification and testing: Once the post-copy activities are completed, the target system is thoroughly tested to ensure it functions properly. This involves validating critical business processes, performing system checks, and verifying that all customizations, authorizations, and user-specific settings have been correctly copied.
7. System cleanup and finalization: After successful testing, any temporary files or logs generated during the system copy process are removed. The source system is brought back to its original state, and any temporary modifications made during the copy process are reverted.

It’s important to note that performing a homogeneous system copy requires careful planning, thorough understanding of the SAP system landscape, and expertise in SAP administration and database management. It is recommended to follow SAP’s official documentation, guidelines, and best practices while performing a system copy to ensure a successful outcome and minimize disruptions to the production environment.