FlashGrid Cluster is compatible with Oracle Database versions 19c, 18c, 12.2.0.1, 12.1.0.2, 11.2.0.4.
Database upgrade options:
- Upgrading database on the existing cluster
- Deploying a new cluster and migrating data
Upgrading database on the existing cluster
The Oracle Database upgrade (and Grid Infrastructure upgrade if necessary) must be performed according to the procedures documented by Oracle on this subject.
It is recommended to open a support ticket to review the versions of FlashGrid software components installed and the cluster status.
Note: It is strongly recommended to perform a full backup of cluster nodes (OS and software) and database(s) before any major changes on cluster. See backup best practices for AWS, Azure, GCP
Deploying a new cluster and migrating data
The procedure involves deploying a new cluster (no intermediate step needed) to run the target version of Oracle database and then migrating data from the existing cluster to it. This option offers more flexibility and minimizes risks, as it allows testing applications with databases running the target version of Oracle Database, while keeping the existing cluster unaltered.
After performing all the testing operations, the migration and cut-over plan can be performed and applications/users pointed to the new cluster.
References
Release Schedule of Current Database Releases (Doc ID 742060.1)
Primary Note For Oracle Database Upgrades and Migrations (Doc ID 1152016.1)
Get Proactive with Oracle Database - Install, Upgrade, and Patching (Doc ID 1627224.1)
Oracle Clusterware (CRS/GI) - ASM - Database Version Compatibility (Doc ID 337737.1)
Upgrade and Migrate to Oracle Database 19c (whitepaper)