1.3.1 Summary of the Steps For Using OPatch in a Fusion Middleware Environment

Applying a patch with OPatch involves a series of steps that must be performed to ensure successful patching.

The following table summarizes the typical steps required to patch your existing Fusion Middleware environment using OPatch.

Table 1-2 Using OPatch with Oracle Fusion Middleware

Task Description Documentation

Acquire patches required for your installation

Log in, search for, and download the patches required for your specific installation.

Obtaining Patches Required for Your Installation

Review the README.txt file for the patch.

Each patch archive includes a README file that contains important information and instructions that must be followed prior to applying your patch. It is important to review the README file because it provides any unique steps or other information specific to the patch.

The README.txt file that is packaged within the patch archive

Check for patch prerequisites.

The OPatch apply -report command will identify that the prerequisites for the patch have been met.

Verifying the Prerequisites for a Patch

Apply the patch.

After you determine the Oracle home to which you need to apply the patch, and you have read the README file, then you should apply the patch with the opatch apply command.

Examples of Applying and Rolling Back Patches Using OPatch

Verify the patch was applied to the Oracle home successfully.

The OPatch lsinventory command will show what patches have been applied to the Oracle home. Use this command to verify the application of the patch.

Using the OPatch lsinventory Command to Verify the Patches Applied to an Oracle Home

Verify that your software runs properly after you apply the patch.

After the patching is complete and your servers are restarted, you should check your product software to verify that the issue has been resolved.

Verifying Your Installation After Applying a Patch

Troubleshoot the application of a patch.

If there are problems applying a patch, your first troubleshooting task is to review the log file for the OPatch session.

Troubleshooting a Patch by Viewing the OPatch Log File

Roll back the application of a patch.

If for some reason the result is not satisfactory, you can use the opatch rollback command to remove the patch from the Oracle home.

If additional assistance is required, go to My Oracle Support (formerly OracleMetaLink).

Rolling Back a Patch You Have Applied