Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 Licensing
- 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.
- A 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
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 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 for cloud deployments on a per-hour or per-usage basis. This flexible licensing option is ideal for organizations that want to leverage 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
The transition from SE and SE1 to SE2
With the release of version 12.1.0.2, Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) replaced the earlier Standard Edition (SE) and Standard Edition One (SE1).
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
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
A Processor License for Oracle Database SE2 costs approximately $17,500, 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 current with the latest features and security patches.
Practical Cost Examples
Cost Calculations for Different Server Setups and User Counts
- 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
- 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
- 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.
FAQs
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.
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.
