As Oracle DBAs, we constantly evaluate new releases, weighing the benefits against the potential risks. Oracle Database 23ai is generating a lot of buzz, but is it the right move for your environment? This blog post will delve into the factors you should consider when deciding whether to upgrade to 23ai, focusing on on-premises and Cloud deployments.
Important Note: 23ai Availability
First of all, it is crucial to understand the current availability landscape for Oracle Database 23ai. As of this writing, the production release of Oracle 23ai is not generally available for on-premises environments unless you are running on Oracle Exadata or Oracle Database Appliance(ODA). It is available in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Oracle Database@Azure, Oracle Database@Google Cloud, and Oracle Database@AWS. Consider this in your decision-making process. This situation will change in the future, so staying informed about Oracle’s release roadmap is essential.
When Upgrading to Oracle, 23ai Makes Sense
If you’re on Exadata, ODA, or in a 23ai supported Cloud environment, 23ai brings a host of new features and enhancements. Here are scenarios where upgrading could be highly beneficial:
- Leveraging AI/ML Capabilities: 23ai introduces significant advancements in AI/ML integration. If your organization is looking to embed machine learning directly into database workflows, this upgrade is a must-consider. Features like the new SQL language extensions for machine learning, AI vector search, in-database Python execution, and improved graph database capabilities can streamline AI/ML development and deployment.
- Demand for Enhanced Developer Productivity: 23ai focuses on improving developer experience with features like JSON Relational Duality, enhanced SQL support, and improved application development frameworks. There are also two additional datatypes, “Boolean” and “Vector.” If your team is struggling with complex data manipulations or needs faster development cycles, 23ai can provide a significant boost.
- Need for Improved Performance and Scalability: Like most new releases, 23ai promises performance improvements and scalability enhancements. If you’re facing performance bottlenecks or anticipating increased data volumes, then upgrading could provide the necessary headroom. 23ai has introduced important features such as raft replication that works with sharding. Likewise, Oracle has introduced True Cache instances, which can be leveraged for performance gains. Look into specific performance benchmarks relevant to your workload to decide if these new features are exactly what you have been waiting for.
- Desire for Advanced Security Features: Oracle continuously enhances security with each release. 23ai includes the latest security patches and features. If security is a top priority, upgrading is always a good practice to mitigate potential vulnerabilities. The newest 23ai feature, SQL Firewall, is easy to use and results in little overhead.
- Modernization Initiatives: If your organization is undertaking a broader IT modernization effort, and you are on a supported on-premise or cloud environment, then upgrading to 23ai can be a key component. It aligns with the latest technology trends and provides a foundation for future innovation. Keeping current in technology allows your organization to benefit from the latest security features, performance enhancements, and AI capabilities to give your applications a leading-edge advantage.
- Consolidation Opportunities: 23ai may offer features that allow you to consolidate multiple older database instances, reducing management overhead and licensing costs. Oracle 23ai is bundled with all the latest features, with some research, you may find you are capable of consolidating systems into one centralized Oracle environment.
When Upgrading to Oracle 23ai Might Not Be the Best Idea (Yet)
While 23ai offers many advantages, there are situations where holding off on the upgrade might be prudent:
- Not on Exadata, ODA, OracleCloud, or other supported Cloud environments: This is the biggest factor. If you are not running on a supported on-premise or cloud environment, you cannot currently deploy 23ai. You would need to consider migrating your on-premise databases to Exadata or Oracle Database Appliance or make the leap to Cloud. If these are not on your roadmap, you must wait for broader on-premises availability.
- Limited Testing and Proven Stability: As a relatively new release, 23ai might not have the same level of real-world production experience as older, more established versions. Thorough testing in a non-production environment is crucial before considering a production upgrade. But that should not prevent your organization from downloading a developer version of 23ai and doing your own preliminary testing.
- Application Compatibility Concerns: Ensure your existing applications are fully compatible with 23ai. Incompatibility issues can lead to application downtime and require significant rework. For example, Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) Release 12.2 is certified with Oracle Database 23ai. But only for on-premises Exadata Database Machine (Exadata), and you must be running Exadata Software version 24.1 (ExaOL8X) or later. Contact your specific application vendors for compatibility certifications.
- Lack of Vendor Support: Check if your third-party software and tools are certified to work with 23ai. Lack of vendor support can create significant challenges down the line.
- Resource Constraints: Upgrading a database requires dedicated resources, including DBA time, hardware upgrades (if needed, especially if moving to Exadata), and application testing. If your team is already stretched thin, consider contacting XTIVIA for virtual DBA services and support. We have a team of senior Oracle DBAs with experience in the latest and greatest technologies, as well as older legacy Oracle databases.
- Cost Considerations: Evaluate the cost of the upgrade, including licensing costs (if applicable), potential hardware upgrades (especially if considering a move to Exadata), and training. Ensure the benefits of the upgrade justify the associated costs. XTIVIA can assist with Oracle licensing, upgrade support, and even training.
- Feature Overkill: If your current database version adequately meets your needs and you don’t require the new features offered by 23ai, there may be no compelling reason to upgrade immediately. Sometimes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is a valid strategy. Oracle19c long-term support was extended until December 31, 2029.
- Feature Desupport/Changes With 23ai, there are some significant required changes. Non-container databases are desupported and are replaced with the new CDB/PDB Model. If you use Oracle auditing, Unified Auditing replaces traditional auditing. A careful review of the full list of desupported features in Oracle Database 23ai is recommended when considering upgrading.
- Complex Upgrade Process: Upgrading a large and complex database can be a challenging undertaking. Careful planning, thorough testing, and a well-defined rollback plan are essential. If your team lacks experience with major upgrades, consider engaging with XTIVIA Oracle consultants for assistance. XTIVIA can also provide project planning consultants to ensure your upgrade or migration project is a success.
Conclusion
Upgrading to Oracle Database 23ai can be a strategic move for organizations looking to leverage the latest advancements, particularly in AI/ML. However, the current availability restrictions (limited to Exadata, OCI, and supported cloud environments) are major factors. Carefully evaluate your needs, assess the risks, and conduct thorough testing before making the leap. A well-informed decision will ensure a smooth and successful upgrade (or a well-justified decision to wait). Remember, the best upgrade is the one that aligns with your business goals and IT strategy. Keep abreast of Oracle’s announcements regarding 23ai availability for your specific platform.
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