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How to Upgrade Oracle Database
Edited 2 days ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
Oracle DatabaseUpgradeDatabase ManagementData MigrationSoftware UpdateAdmin ToolsSystem ConfigurationPerformanceSecurityEnterprise Solutions
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Upgrading an Oracle database is a critical task that is required to maintain the security, performance, and reliability of an organization's data management systems. Although it may seem like a daunting task, following a systematic approach can help simplify the process and ensure a successful upgrade. This guide explains how to upgrade an Oracle database in simple terms and covers everything you need to know about the process.
Understanding the upgrade process
The Oracle database upgrade process typically involves moving from an older version of the database to a newer version. This new version may provide new features, performance improvements, or security enhancements. Therefore, to take advantage of these improvements, companies often have to upgrade the database.
Before getting down to the actual procedure, let us understand some of the terms and steps involved:
- Pre-upgrade tasks: These are the tasks that are performed before starting the upgrade process to ensure that everything is in the right place for a successful change.
- Upgrade: This is the main process where the database is converted from the old version to the new version.
- Post-upgrade tasks: These tasks are performed after the upgrade to verify that everything is working as expected.
Step 1: Pre-upgrade tasks
1.1 Read the Oracle documentation
The first step involves reviewing Oracle's upgrade documentation. The documentation provides details specific to your version and provides the latest tips and best practices for the upgrade process.
1.2 Assess system requirements
Verify the requirements for the new database version, including hardware, operating system, and any other prerequisites. Make sure your current setup complies with these before proceeding.
1.3 Back up your data
It is important to take a full backup of your existing database. You can use Oracle Recovery Manager (RMAN) for this purpose. Here is a simple command to take a backup:
RUN { BACKUP DATABASE PLUS ARCHIVELOG; }1.4 Test the upgrade
Testing the upgrade process in a non-production environment helps identify potential problems. This testing can be performed using Oracle's Database Upgrade Assistant (DBUA) or by performing a manual upgrade.
1.5 Check compatibility
Use Oracle's database pre-upgrade information tool to check for compatibility issues with the new database version. Run the pre-upgrade check as follows:
@?/rdbms/admin/utluppkg.sqlStep 2: Upgrade
2.1 Choose an upgrade method
The choice of upgrade method may depend on various factors, including downtime tolerance, complexity, and available equipment. These methods are:
- Database Upgrade Assistant (DBUA): A graphical interface that simplifies the upgrade process.
- Manual Upgrade: This includes command-line instructions and scripts to upgrade the database.
2.2 Using the Database Upgrade Assistant (DBUA)
DBUA provides a graphical interface for the upgrade, making it easier for some users. It guides you through each step of the process:
To use DBUA:
- Log in to the system where your Oracle database is installed.
- Launch DBUA from your ORACLE_HOME:
$ORACLE_HOME/bin/dbua2.3 Manual upgrade
If you opt for a manual upgrade, you have direct control over each step. Here are the generalized steps for a typical manual upgrade:
2.3.1 Create a new Oracle Home
Install the new Oracle software on a different Oracle Home. Make sure the environment variables ORACLE_HOME and ORACLE_SID are set correctly. Here is an example:
export ORACLE_HOME=/u01/app/oracle/product/12.2.0/dbhome_1
export ORACLE_SID=orcl2.3.2 Upgrade the database
Shut down the current database by using the following command:
SHUTDOWN IMMEDIATE;Start the database in UPGRADE mode with the command:
STARTUP UPGRADE;Run the Oracle Parallel Upgrade Utility:
cd $ORACLE_HOME/rdbms/admin
@catupgrd.sql2.3.3 Restart and open the database
After successful execution, restart the database:
SHUTDOWN IMMEDIATE;
STARTUP;2.3.4 Compile invalid object
Finally, use the following to compile out invalid objects:
@utlrp.sqlStep 3: Post-upgrade tasks
3.1 Validate the upgrade
Make sure the upgrade process completed successfully by checking the logs and status in DBA_REGISTRY.
3.2 Test the application functionality
Run tests to ensure that all applications work correctly with the new version. This step can include both automated and manual testing.
3.3 Run performance tests
Perform performance tests to confirm that the upgraded database meets the intended performance criteria and compare the baseline with the previous version.
3.4 Monitor system performance
Continuously monitor performance and usability of advanced systems and make adjustments as necessary.
Conclusion
Upgrading an Oracle database is a complex process that requires careful preparation and execution. Ensuring that you have comprehensive backups, proper planning, and a robust testing process is critical to achieving a smooth transition. By following the outlined steps – pre-upgrade tasks, executing the upgrade, and post-upgrade validation – organizations can efficiently transition to a new Oracle database version while maximizing the benefits brought by updated features and improvements.
Although each system and organization may have different considerations, this guide provides a general framework applicable to a variety of scenarios, designed to ensure a successful Oracle database upgrade with minimal risk.
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