• Oracle Database SE2 licenses by socket or named users.
• Maximum of 2 sockets per server.
• Supports up to 16 CPU threads.
• No RAC support from Oracle Database 19c onward.
• Named User Plus License costs $350.Processor License costs $17,500.
• Cloud licensing is available per hour or usage.

Introduction Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 Licensing

Brief Introduction to Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2)

Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) is a powerful and cost-effective database management system for small to medium-sized businesses.

It offers many robust features in Oracle’s enterprise-grade databases but at a lower cost, making it accessible for organizations with limited budgets.

Importance of Understanding SE2 Licensing

Understanding SE2 licensing is crucial for organizations to avoid overpaying and ensure compliance with Oracle’s licensing policies.

Proper licensing helps organizations maximize the value of their investment in Oracle Database SE2 while avoiding potential legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance.

Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 Licensing Guide

Overview of SE2

Explanation of SE2

Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 is designed to provide a robust and reliable database solution for small—to medium-sized businesses.

It includes features such as real-time data compression, automatic storage management, and online index reorganization. It supports up to 16 CPU threads and a maximum of two sockets per server.

Key Features and Limitations

• Key Features:
  • Real-time data compression
  • Automatic storage management
  • Online index reorganization
• Limitations:
  • Supports up to 16 CPU threads
  • Restricted to servers with a maximum of two sockets
  • No Real Application Clusters (RAC) support from Oracle Database 19c onwards

Licensing Options

Per Socket Licensing

Explanation and Use Case

Socket Licensing for SE2 is based on the number of processor sockets on the server. Each socket requires a separate license. This licensing method is ideal for organizations with fewer, more powerful servers. For example, a server with two sockets would require two SE2 licenses.

Named User Plus Licensing

Explanation and Use Case

Named User Plus Licensing licenses SE2 based on the number of named users accessing the database.

Each named user requires a license, and there must be a minimum of 10 users per server. This option is suitable for organizations with many users but fewer processor resources.

For instance, an organization with 20 users on a single-socket server would need 20 Named User Plus licenses.

Cloud Licensing

Explanation and Use Case

Oracle offers SE2 licensing on a per-hour or per-usage basis for cloud deployments. This flexible licensing option is ideal for organizations leveraging cloud infrastructure without a long-term commitment.

It allows businesses to pay for what they use, making it cost-effective for variable workloads. For example, a company using SE2 in a cloud environment for temporary projects can license it per hour, aligning costs with usage.

Oracle Database Standard Edition Versions and Licensing

Evolution of SE2

The transition from SE and SE1 to SE2

Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) replaced the earlier Standard Edition (SE) and Standard Edition One (SE1) with the release of version 12.1.0.2.

This transition aimed to streamline Oracle’s database offerings and provide a more consistent and scalable solution for small to medium-sized businesses.

Key Changes and Improvements in SE2

SE2 introduced several key changes and improvements:

• RAC Restrictions: SE2 includes Real Application Clusters (RAC) but is restricted to two sockets across the cluster. From Oracle Database 19c onwards, RAC is no longer supported in SE2.
• CPU Thread Limitation: SE2 supports a maximum of 16 CPU threads.
• Socket Limitation: SE2 can only be licensed on servers with a maximum of two sockets, making it suitable for smaller server deployments.

Licensing Requirements

Server Capacity Limitations

SE2 is designed for deployment on servers with a maximum capacity of two sockets. Additionally, it supports up to 16 CPU threads. Servers exceeding these capacities require Enterprise Edition licenses.

User Minimums

SE2 licensing also requires a minimum of ten named users per server. This means licenses for at least ten named users must be purchased per server, even if fewer users access the database.

Costs of Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 License

Pricing Breakdown

Named User Plus License Cost

A Named User Plus License for Oracle Database SE2 costs approximately $350. This license covers one named user’s access to the database.

Processor License Cost

The cost of a Processor License for Oracle Database SE2 is approximately $17,500, and it is based on the number of processor sockets on the server.

Software Update and Support Costs

In addition to the initial licensing costs, organizations must also consider ongoing software update and support costs. These costs ensure the database system remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.

Practical Cost Examples

Cost Calculations for Different Server Setups and User Counts

1. Single-Socket Server with 10 Users:
   • Named User Plus Licensing: 10 users * $350 = $3,500
   • Processor Licensing: 1 socket * $17,500 = $17,500
   • Total Cost for Named User Plus: $3,500
   • Total Cost for Processor License: $17,500
2. Two-Socket Server with 20 Users:
   • Named User Plus Licensing: 20 users * $350 = $7,000
   • Processor Licensing: 2 sockets * $17,500 = $35,000
   • Total Cost for Named User Plus: $7,000
   • Total Cost for Processor License: $35,000
3. Single-Socket Server with 50 Users:
   • Named User Plus Licensing: 50 users * $350 = $17,500
   • Processor Licensing: 1 socket * $17,500 = $17,500
   • Total Cost for Named User Plus: $17,500
   • Total Cost for Processor License: $17,500

These examples illustrate the varying costs associated with different server configurations and user counts, helping organizations plan their budgets accordingly.

Best Practices for Licensing SE2

Licensing Compliance

Importance of Working with Oracle Licensing Experts
Collaborating with Oracle licensing experts ensures your organization fully understands the licensing requirements and avoids common pitfalls. Experts can guide your needs and help you navigate complex licensing scenarios.

Keeping Accurate Records of Licensing Agreements and Usage
Maintaining detailed and accurate records of all licensing agreements and actual usage is essential. This practice helps in audits and ensures that your organization complies with Oracle’s licensing policies.

Regular Reviews

Conducting Periodic Reviews of Licensing Agreements and Usage
Regularly reviewing your licensing agreements and usage patterns helps identify any discrepancies or changes in your organizational needs. Periodic reviews can prevent compliance issues and ensure your licenses align with your current usage.

Adjusting Licenses to Cover Changes in Server Capacity or Usage
As your server capacity or usage changes, you must adjust your licenses accordingly. This ensures that your licensing remains compliant with Oracle’s policies and avoids potential penalties.

FAQs – Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 Licensing

Can SE2 be used in a virtualized environment?
Yes, SE2 can be used in a virtualized environment, provided that all instances are properly licensed according to Oracle’s policies.

Can I downgrade from Oracle Database Enterprise Edition to SE2?
No, downgrading from Oracle Database Enterprise Edition to SE2 is not allowed.

How do I calculate the number of licenses required for my server?
Licenses are calculated based on the number of occupied processor sockets. For precise calculations, consult an Oracle licensing expert.

Can I use Enterprise Edition features on SE2?
No, using Enterprise Edition features on SE2 is not permitted from a licensing perspective. If detected, you would need to purchase the appropriate Enterprise Edition licenses.

Do I have the right to upgrade to later versions of Oracle Database?
Yes, if you purchased a perpetual license and have remained on active support, you can upgrade to any Oracle Database version.

What are the server capacity limitations for SE2?
SE2 is designed for servers with a maximum capacity of two sockets and supports up to 16 CPU threads.

What are the limitations of Oracle Database 12c SE2?
Oracle Database 12c SE2 has limitations compared to the Enterprise Edition, such as a maximum of two sockets, no advanced compression or partitioning features, and restricted high availability and security features.

What is the difference between Standard Edition and Enterprise Edition?
Standard Edition is a lower-cost option with a subset of features found in the Enterprise Edition. It’s designed for small to medium-sized businesses, while Enterprise Edition offers more advanced features and no restrictions on processing power.

Is Oracle 12c Standard Edition free?
No, Oracle 12c Standard Edition is not free. It is a commercial product, and licenses must be purchased.

What are the limitations of RAC in SE2?
RAC in SE2 is limited to servers with a maximum of two sockets. It is no longer available in SE2 from version 19c onwards.

How do I determine if my Oracle version is Enterprise or Standard?
Run the SQL command SELECT * FROM V$VERSION; To determine whether your Oracle version is Standard or Enterprise Edition.

What is the difference between Oracle Cloud Standard and Enterprise?
Oracle Cloud Standard is a cost-effective solution for smaller workloads, offering core features and capabilities. Oracle Cloud Enterprise provides advanced features, higher performance, and greater flexibility for larger, more complex workloads.

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