Introduction to Oracle database 21c licensing
In the ever-evolving world of database technology, Oracle continues to introduce new features and enhancements to improve its database systems’ performance, security, and scalability.
With the release of Oracle Database 21c, several new features have been introduced that not only enhance the capabilities of the database but also require additional licensing.
This informative article aims to help you understand which new features trigger additional licensing requirements.
Oracle Database 21c Licensing – New Features
Introduction
Oracle Database 21c introduces many new features and enhancements, continuing Oracle’s tradition of providing robust, innovative database solutions.
With every new release, users must understand the changes in licensing to maximize the benefits while managing costs effectively.
This article focuses on Oracle Database 21c’s new licensing features, highlighting what is free and what requires additional licensing.
Overview of Oracle Database 21c
Introduction to Oracle Database 21c
Oracle Database 21c is the latest iteration in Oracle’s extensive lineup of database solutions.
It brings numerous enhancements that cater to the evolving needs of modern enterprises, including advanced performance features, better integration capabilities, and improved security.
Key Improvements and Enhancements
- Automated Machine Learning (AutoML): Enhances database analytics with built-in machine learning algorithms.
- Blockchain Tables: Introduces immutable tables that leverage blockchain technology for secure data storage.
- In-Memory Enhancements: Improves in-memory processing capabilities, boosting performance for analytical queries.
- JSON Enhancements: Provides better support and performance for JSON data, catering to modern application development needs.
- Sharding Enhancements: Enhances database sharding capabilities for better scalability and data distribution.
Comparison with Previous Versions
Oracle Database 21c builds on the strengths of its predecessors by integrating advanced features and improving existing functionalities.
Compared to Oracle Database 19c, the 21c version offers more streamlined processes, enhanced security features, and greater support for modern data types and architectures.
New Licensing Features in Oracle Database 21c
Detailed Description of New Licensing Features
Oracle Database 21c introduces several new features that impact licensing.
These include options for advanced analytics, machine learning, and enhanced security measures.
- AutoML and Advanced Analytics: New machine learning capabilities integrated into the database, requiring specific licensing for advanced features.
- Blockchain Tables: A new feature that may require additional licensing, providing tamper-evident, immutable data storage solutions.
- In-Memory Enhancements: Enhanced in-memory capabilities may come with licensing options depending on the extent of usage and performance needs.
- JSON and Sharding Enhancements: Improvements in handling JSON data and database sharding capabilities may be covered under existing licenses or require additional options for extensive use.
Explanation of How These Features Differ from Previous Versions
Unlike previous versions, Oracle Database 21c emphasizes machine learning and blockchain technology, reflecting the growing importance of these technologies in modern data management.
The licensing for these features is structured to allow users to leverage these advanced capabilities while effectively managing costs.
Free Features in Oracle Database 21c
List of New Features Available Without Additional Licensing
Oracle Database 21c offers several new features without requiring additional licenses. These include:
- Enhanced JSON Support: The standard database package has enhanced JSON data handling capabilities.
- Basic In-Memory Enhancements: Some in-memory processing improvements are included without extra cost.
- Simplified Multitenant Architecture: Basic use of the multitenant architecture is available without requiring additional licensing.
- SQL Macros: Introduced to simplify SQL code, this feature is included in the standard licensing.
Benefits of These Free Features for Users
Including these features without additional licensing costs makes it easier for organizations to adopt the latest technologies and improve their database operations without incurring extra expenses. Users can benefit from:
- Improved Performance: Enhanced in-memory and JSON handling capabilities boost database performance for critical applications.
- Simplified Management: The simplified multitenant architecture allows for easier management of multiple databases.
- Enhanced Developer Productivity: Features like SQL Macros simplify development tasks, making it easier for developers to write and maintain SQL code.
Examples of Use Cases
- E-commerce Applications: Leveraging enhanced JSON support for faster and more efficient data handling.
- Financial Services: Utilizing basic in-memory enhancements for quicker data processing and analytics.
- Educational Institutions: Employing the simplified multitenant architecture to manage multiple academic databases efficiently.
By understanding and utilizing these free features, organizations can take full advantage of Oracle Database 21c’s capabilities while keeping their licensing costs in check.
Oracle Real Application Clusters (RAC)
Oracle RAC has a new AutoUpgrade feature, which automates all the steps needed to upgrade an Oracle RAC database.
This feature is part of Oracle Database 21c and requires additional licensing.
Oracle Multitenant
Oracle Multitenant has introduced several new features in Oracle Database 21c, including:
- AutoUpgrade for Non-CDB to PDB: This feature automates converting a database from a non-CDB to a PDB as part of a database upgrade.
- AutoUpgrade for PDB via Unplug-Plug-Upgrade: This feature automates unplugging a PDB from a CDB, plugging it into a higher version CDB, and upgrading the PDB to that new target version.
- DRCP Enhancements: You can now configure Database Resident Connection Pooling (DRCP) from the CDB to individual PDBs for improved PDB tenancy management.
Oracle Active Data Guard
Oracle Active Data Guard has a new feature called Standby Result Cache. This feature utilizes the result cache in an Active Data Guard standby database to cache the results of queries run on the physical standby database.
Oracle Database Vault
Oracle Database Vault has introduced two new features:
- ADMINISTER KEY MANAGEMENT Statement Protection: With Oracle Database Vault command rules, you can now protect the ADMINISTER KEY MANAGEMENT statement.
- Prevention of Local Oracle Database Vault Policies: A DV_OWNER common user in the CDB root can now prevent local users from creating Oracle Database Vault controls on common objects in a pluggable database (PDB).
FAQ about Oracle Database 21c Licensing – New Features
What is Oracle Database 21c?
Oracle Database 21c is the latest version of Oracle’s database software, offering new features and improvements for modern data management needs.
What are some new features in Oracle Database 21c?
Oracle Database 21c includes automated machine learning (AutoML), blockchain tables, in-memory enhancements, and improved JSON support.
How does the licensing model for Oracle Database 21c differ from previous versions?
The licensing model for Oracle Database 21c introduces new options for advanced analytics, machine learning, and enhanced security features.
Are there any free features in Oracle Database 21c?
Yes, features like enhanced JSON support, basic in-memory processing, simplified multitenant architecture, and SQL macros are available without additional licensing costs.
Do I need an additional license for AutoML in Oracle Database 21c?
Yes, advanced machine learning capabilities integrated into Oracle Database 21c may require specific licensing.
What are blockchain tables, and do they require additional licensing?
Blockchain tables provide tamper-evident, immutable data storage using blockchain technology. They may require additional licensing.
Is the improved in-memory processing feature free?
Some basic in-memory processing enhancements are included without extra cost, but advanced features may require additional licensing.
How does Oracle Database 21c support JSON data?
Oracle Database 21c offers improved performance and support for JSON data, which is included in the standard database package.
What is the simplified multitenant architecture in Oracle Database 21c?
The simplified multitenant architecture allows for easier management of multiple databases and is available without requiring additional licensing.
Are SQL macros a new feature in Oracle Database 21c?
Yes, SQL macros simplify SQL code and are included in the standard licensing.
What are the benefits of these free features in Oracle Database 21c?
These free features help improve database performance, simplify management, and enhance developer productivity without additional costs.
How can I upgrade to Oracle Database 21c?
You can upgrade by downloading the latest version from the Oracle website and following the upgrade procedures outlined in the documentation.
What are the cost implications of new licensing features in Oracle Database 21c?
New licensing features may involve additional costs for advanced capabilities such as machine learning, blockchain tables, and enhanced in-memory processing.
Are there changes in Oracle’s licensing models with Database 21c?
Yes, Oracle has introduced changes to its licensing models to accommodate new features and capabilities in Database 21c.
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