4.1 Understanding Oracle Exadata System Software Release Numbering
The Oracle Exadata System Software release number is related to the Oracle Database release number.
The Oracle Exadata System Software release number matches the highest Oracle Grid Infrastructure and Oracle Database version it supports. For example, the highest version Oracle Exadata System Software release 18 supports is Oracle Grid Infrastructure and Oracle Database release 18. The highest version Oracle Exadata System Software release 12.2 supports is Oracle Grid Infrastructure and Oracle Database release 12.2.0.1.
Release 18c and Later Numbering
The Oracle Exadata System Software release that followed release 12.2.1.1.8 was renamed to 18.1.0 and a new numbering scheme for the Oracle Exadata System Software was implemented. Instead of a legacy nomenclature such as 12.2.1.1.5, a three field format consisting of: Year.Update.Revision is used, for example 18.1.0. This new numbering scheme allows you to clearly determine:
- The annual release designation of the software
- The latest software update, which can contain new features
- The latest software revision, which includes security and software fixes
If there are new features or new hardware supported, a new software update will be release during the year, for example, 19.2. To allow you to keep current on just security-related and other software fixes after your feature environment becomes stable, software revisions are made available approximately once a month, for example 19.1.3.
Numbering for Releases Prior to 18c
- The first two digits of the Oracle Exadata System Software release number represent the major Oracle Database release number, such as Oracle Database 12c Release 1 (12.1). Oracle Exadata System Software release 12.1 is compatible with all Oracle Database 12c Release 1 (12.1) releases.
- The third digit usually represents the component-specific Oracle Database release number. This digit usually matches the fourth digit of the complete release number, such as 12.1.0.1.0 for the current release of Oracle Database.
- The last two digits represent the Oracle Exadata System Software release.