Effective July 31, 2022, Extended Support for Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 and Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2 ended. If you’re using either of these versions, it’s important to understand what this means for your organization and what your options are moving forward.
Extended Support was offered for the period August 2021 through July 2022 for the following platforms: Linux x86-64, Linux on IBM Z, IBM AIX on POWER Systems (64 bit), HP-UX Itanium, Fujitsu BS2000, Oracle Solaris on SPARC, Oracle Solaris on x86-64 and Microsoft Windows x64.
What is Extended Support?
Extended Support is the second phase of Oracle’s support policy, following Premier Support. During this period, Oracle continues to provide technical support for customers who have opted for Extended Support. This includes access to bug fixes, security updates, and other patches. However, unlike Premier Support, Extended Support does not include certification with new third-party products or major upgrades.
When Does Extended Support End for Oracle Database 12.1.0.2?
Extended Support for Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 and Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2 already ended on July 31, 2022. After this date, Oracle will no longer provide bug fixes, security updates, or patches for these versions.
What Are My Options if I’m Using Oracle Database 12.1.0.2?
If you’re using Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 or Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2, you have a few options moving forward:
- Upgrade to a Supported Version: The latest version of Oracle Database is Oracle Database 21c, and the current long-term release is 19c. Upgrading to a supported version will ensure that you continue to receive technical support, bug fixes, and security updates.
- Purchase Sustaining Support: After the Extended Support period for Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 and Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2 ended on July 31, 2022, customers who require assistance with their databases will need to purchase Sustaining Support. See the comparison table below for more info.
- Continue Using Oracle Database 12.1.0.2: If you choose to continue using Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 or Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2 after the end of Extended Support, you will no longer receive bug fixes, security updates, or patches from Oracle. This could leave your organization vulnerable to security threats and other issues.
Comparison Table of Oracle Database Support Options:
| Support Options | Premier Support | Extended Support | Sustaining Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Support | Yes | Yes | Knowledge Base only |
| Bug Fixes and Patches | Yes | Yes | No |
| Security Updates | Yes | Yes | No |
| Certification | Yes | No | No |
| Major Upgrades | Yes | No | No |
| Fee | Included in License | Additional Fee | Additional Fee |
Conclusion
If you’re using Oracle Database Enterprise Edition 12.1.0.2 or Oracle Database Standard Edition 2 (SE2) 12.1.0.2, it’s important to be aware that Extended Support will end on July 31, 2022. To continue receiving technical support, bug fixes, and security updates, you will need to upgrade to a supported version of Oracle Database, purchase Extended Support, or consider Sustaining Support. By weighing your options and making a decision before the end of Extended Support, you can ensure that your organization stays secure and up-to-date.
If you have any questions, just contact SCHNEIDER IT MANAGEMENT for free expert consultancy on Oracle licensing for organizations.
Links
For the Lifetime Support Policy on Oracle Technology Products such as Oracle Database editions, please visit: https://www.oracle.com/us/assets/lifetime-support-technology-069183.pdf.
For a compilation of resources concerning Oracle Lifetime Support Policies, please visit: https://www.oracle.com/support/lifetime-support/resources.html.
For a comparison of the different stages of Lifetime Support for Oracle software, please visit: https://www.oracle.com/support/lifetime-support/software.html.
For a post on the availability of Oracle Database 21c, please visit: https://www.schneider.im/oracle-database-21c-available/.
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