Best way to import and/or upgrade Oracle database

Question

I have an Oracle database, version 11.2.0.3.6. I need to export that database and import it in a 11.2.0.3.15 home on another server. What's preferred?

1) Just export/import the old database on a newly created instance running 11.2.0.3.15?

2) Upgrade the old database to 11.2.0.3.15, and then do the export/import to the new server?

3) Any other suggestion?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

1. That is possible.

2. Not really needed. You can just simply transfer the database to the new server, and run the PSU postinstall script there, that takes like 1 minute.

3. Depends on some factors:

   • platform of the old and new systems
   • size of the database + hardware environment (network/disk transfer speed and CPU power)
   • downtime allowed
   • Standard or Enterprise edition
   • archivelog mode enabled
   • have backups
   • need the current state of the database on the new server, or yesterday evening is good enough
   • can use licensed extra products

Some other methods:

• RMAN restore from backup (and run the PSU postinstall script)
• RMAN duplicate from active database or backup (and run the PSU postinstall script)
• RMAN transportable tablespace/database
• configure Streams replication and switch to new database
• configure GoldenGate replication and switch to new database
• configure the new host as a Data Guard standby then perform a role transition (and run the PSU postinstall script)

There is no best method. It depends on your actual task/environment.