Oracle Application Express License – Is it Free?

Oracle Application Express (APEX) is:

• A low-code development platform for creating web-based applications.
• Integrated as a no-cost feature of all Oracle Database editions, including the Oracle Database Express Edition (XE).
• Free to use with an existing Oracle Database license.
• Available as a standalone product but requires purchasing an Oracle Database license without an existing license.

What is Oracle Application Express?

Oracle Application Express (APEX) is a low-code development platform that enables users to build scalable, secure enterprise applications with minimal programming effort. ‘

It is designed to simplify developing and deploying data-driven applications, making them accessible to professional developers and business users.

Importance of APEX in Application Development

APEX is highly valued in application development for its ability to accelerate development, reduce costs, and provide robust integration capabilities.

Its low-code nature allows organizations to rapidly prototype and deploy applications, improving agility and responsiveness to business needs.

Additionally, APEX’s integration with Oracle Database ensures high performance and security for enterprise applications.

Oracle Apex – Architecture and Support

Oracle Application Express (APEX) is not just about the surface-level capabilities; its underlying architecture and support system are pivotal in its effectiveness and adaptability.

Database-Centric and Scalable

At its core, Oracle APEX exhibits a database-centric architecture. This design is pivotal for several reasons:

• Integrated with Oracle Database: Oracle APEX is seamlessly integrated with Oracle Database, ensuring robustness and reliability.
• Scalability: The platform’s scalability is evident, as it can handle varying loads. This makes it suitable for small-scale projects and large enterprise applications.
• Full Support Across Oracle Database Editions: Oracle APEX’s compatibility with various Oracle Database editions, including Enterprise Edition (EE), Standard Edition 2 (SE2), and Oracle Database 18c Express Edition (XE), ensures that a wide range of applications and scenarios are supported.

Advanced Integration and Multi-Tenancy

• SQL and PL/SQL Integration: Oracle APEX’s integration with SQL and PL/SQL allows developers to leverage their existing database skills, ensuring that complex data operations are handled efficiently.
• Multi-Tenant Capabilities: The platform’s multi-tenant architecture ensures that multiple independent applications can be hosted on a single infrastructure, providing cost efficiency and easier management.
• RESTful Web Services: Oracle APEX’s support for RESTful Web Services facilitates easy data exchange and integration with other systems, enhancing the platform’s interoperability.
• Developing with Oracle APEX
• Developing web-based applications using Oracle APEX is a process that blends simplicity with robust capabilities. Here, we provide a guide to harnessing the platform’s power using SQL, PL/SQL, and a web browser.
• Streamlined Application Development
• Web Browser-Based Development: Oracle APEX allows the creation of applications directly through a web browser. This simplifies the development process, eliminating the need for complex setups or installations.
• Utilizing SQL and PL/SQL: Oracle APEX empowers developers to easily build data-driven applications by providing the tools to create detailed reports, interactive charts, and data forms.
• Tools and Workshops
• SQL Workshop: The SQL Workshop within Oracle APEX is a suite of tools for managing database objects, running SQL queries, and developing SQL and PL/SQL code.
• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs): Oracle APEX provides various APIs, enabling developers to enhance their applications with custom functionality. These APIs range from back-end database operations to front-end JavaScript enhancements.
• Developing for a Professional Edge
• Professional Web-Based Applications: Oracle APEX streamlines the creation of professional, fast, and secure web-based applications. This allows developers to focus on solving business problems rather than being bogged down by programming intricacies.
• Mobile and Responsive Design: Oracle APEX includes features for developing mobile-responsive applications, ensuring accessibility and optimal user experience across devices.
• Oracle APEX stands out as a tool that combines ease of use with powerful development capabilities. Its robust and scalable architecture makes it suitable for various applications.

Oracle Application Express License

Oracle Application Express is licensed as part of the Oracle Database.

You can use APEX at no additional cost with an Oracle Database license. APEX is a no-cost feature of all Oracle Database editions, including Oracle Database Express Edition (XE).

Is Oracle Application Express Free?

Oracle Application Express is free if you have an Oracle Database license.

APEX is a no-cost feature of all Oracle Database editions, including Oracle Database Express Edition (XE).

However, if you do not have an Oracle Database license, you can still use APEX by downloading it as a standalone product. Oracle provides APEX as a free download, but you must purchase an Oracle Database license.

Oracle Application Express Licensing Options

Oracle offers several licensing options for Oracle Application Express, including:

• Oracle Database Standard Edition 2
• Oracle Database Enterprise Edition
• Oracle Database Cloud Service
• Oracle Database Cloud Exadata Service

Each licensing option includes APEX as a no-cost feature.

Oracle Database Licensing Options

Oracle offers several licensing options for Oracle Database, including:

• Oracle Database Standard Edition 2
• Oracle Database Enterprise Edition
• Oracle Database Cloud Service
• Oracle Database Cloud Exadata Service
• Oracle Database Express Edition (XE)

APEX is included as a no-cost feature of all Oracle Database editions.

Alternatives to Oracle Application Express

While Oracle Application Express (APEX) is a powerful tool for developing web and mobile applications, alternative platforms that suit specific project requirements or organizational contexts must be considered.

Below are some notable alternatives and how they compare to Oracle APEX.

1. Microsoft Power Apps

• Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: Power Apps is deeply integrated with other Microsoft services, such as SharePoint, Office 365, and Azure, making it a strong contender for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
• Ease of Use: It offers a more intuitive drag-and-drop interface, which can be more user-friendly for those without extensive coding experience.
• Comparison: While Oracle APEX provides more in-depth database integration, Power Apps excels in seamless integration with other Microsoft services and ease of use for non-developers.

2. OutSystems

• Rapid Development Capabilities: OutSystems is known for its rapid application development and deployment capabilities, similar to Oracle APEX.
• Cross-Platform Functionality: It offers strong cross-platform support, enabling the development of applications for various operating systems and devices.
• Comparison: OutSystems stands out for its cross-platform capabilities and is typically favored for its extensive enterprise-grade features, compared to Oracle APEX’s more focused approach to Oracle database integration.

3. Mendix

• Low-Code Platform: Mendix is another popular platform emphasizing rapid development and agility.
• Collaboration Features: It offers extensive features facilitating teamwork and communication among developers and stakeholders.
• Comparison: Mendix is particularly advantageous for teams looking for collaborative tools and a strong low-code approach, whereas Oracle APEX is more suited for projects that require deep integration with Oracle databases.

4. FileMaker

• Custom Database Applications: FileMaker specializes in creating custom database applications and is known for its ease of use.
• Cross-Platform Deployment: It supports deployment across Windows, macOS, web, and mobile, offering flexibility in application delivery.
• Comparison: While FileMaker is user-friendly and versatile in deployment, Oracle APEX offers more robust enterprise-level capabilities and a stronger focus on web-based applications.

5. Zoho Creator

• SMB-Friendly: Zoho Creator is designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Its interface is simple and intuitive, making it ideal for app development.
• Integration with Zoho Suite: It integrates well with the Zoho suite of products, which can be a significant advantage for existing Zoho users.
• Comparison: Zoho Creator is more accessible for smaller teams or businesses, whereas Oracle APEX offers more advanced features suitable for larger enterprises and complex applications.

Each of these alternatives has its unique strengths and use cases.

The choice between Oracle APEX and its alternatives often depends on specific project requirements, existing infrastructure, and the level of complexity required in the application development process.

Real-World Applications

Oracle Application Express (APEX) ‘s versatility and efficacy are best illustrated through its real-world applications in various industries.

These case studies and customer stories shed light on how different sectors harness Oracle APEX for innovative business solutions.

Read our article’s top 10 reasons why developers use Oracle Apex.

Healthcare Industry

• Patient Management Systems: Oracle APEX has been instrumental in developing patient management systems, enabling healthcare providers to maintain comprehensive patient records, schedule appointments, and manage billing efficiently.
• Case Study: A notable hospital network used Oracle APEX to create a centralized system that streamlined patient data management and improved the overall quality of healthcare services.

Educational Sector

• E-Learning Platforms: Various educational institutions have developed e-learning platforms using Oracle APEX. These platforms facilitate online course management, student engagement, and remote learning capabilities.
• Case Study: A university developed an e-learning portal with Oracle APEX, which provides seamless access to educational resources and collaboration tools for students and faculty.

Retail and E-commerce

• Inventory Management Systems: In the retail sector, Oracle APEX has created robust inventory management systems that track stock levels, manage orders, and analyze sales trends.
• Case Study: An e-commerce company utilized Oracle APEX to build a comprehensive inventory system integrated with their ERP solution, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Financial Services

• Data Analysis and Reporting Tools: Financial institutions often use Oracle APEX to develop in-depth data analysis and financial reporting applications.
• Case Study: A financial services firm implemented an Oracle APEX-based application that automated complex financial reports, saving significant time and reducing errors.

Public Sector

• Government Data Management: Oracle APEX is also prevalent in the public sector for managing government data and public records and facilitating citizen services.
• Case Study: A government agency developed a public records management system with Oracle APEX, improving transparency and accessibility for citizens.

Oracle Application Express license FAQs