• 04 Dec 2025

Common Challenges When Migrating Oracle 19c to 23c and How to Address Them

Upgrading Oracle databases requires careful planning and precise execution. Teams moving from Oracle 19c to 23c often face issues related to compatibility, downtime, performance, automation, and security.

With the proper preparation and tools, the upgrade can be executed smoothly.

Oracle 23c provides improvements in performance, automation, and security. Following proven migration strategies helps reduce risks and ensures a successful transition.

Key challenges and solutions for migrating Oracle 19c to 23c, ensuring security, performance, and continuity.

1. Compatibility and Schema Adjustments

Compatibility is one of the first challenges in this upgrade. Changes in SQL behavior, deprecated features, and updated system parameters can affect existing applications.

Running a pre-upgrade assessment and validating schema structures helps identify required adjustments early.

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2. Downtime and Business Continuity

Downtime becomes a concern when working with large databases or complex environments. Extended outages can disrupt ongoing operations.

Zero-downtime migration methods, such as real-time replication, reduce interruptions and maintain access during the upgrade.

3. Performance Optimization

Performance gaps may appear after migration. Query plans, indexing strategies, or configuration mismatches can slow down workloads.

Performance analysis before and after migration helps teams fine-tune the system to match Oracle 23c requirements.

4. Automation and Upgrade Complexity

Manual upgrades introduce errors and extend delivery timelines. Automation simplifies the upgrade, reduces manual work, and ensures consistent execution across environments.

Tools that support automated patching and provisioning help streamline the whole migration cycle.

5. Security and Compliance

Security requirements increase during database upgrades. Access controls, encryption standards, and privilege settings must align with compliance frameworks.

A security review before migration helps teams confirm that the new environment meets policy expectations.

6. Rollback and Contingency Planning

Rollback planning is essential in case unexpected issues appear during migration. Full backups, flashback options, and tested contingency procedures allow teams to revert safely without data loss.

Preparing these steps in advance avoids operational disruption.

7. High Availability and Cloud Readiness

Many teams use this upgrade to move toward cloud or hybrid architectures. Ensuring high availability during and after migration supports continuous operations.

Features such as clustering and advanced storage management strengthen reliability in both on-prem and cloud environments.

Key Tools That Support the Oracle 19c to 23c Migration

  • Database Pre-Upgrade Information Utility
  • Oracle GoldenGate
  • Oracle Data Guard
  • Oracle Data Pump
  • SQL Performance Analyzer (SPA)
  • Automatic Workload Repository (AWR)
  • Oracle Fleet Patching and Provisioning (FPP)
  • Oracle Flashback Technology

DataTerrain: A Trusted Partner for Oracle Database Migrations

A successful Oracle upgrade requires expertise, planning, and structured execution. DataTerrain supports the Oracle 19c to 23c migration process with tailored strategies, automation capabilities, and performance tuning.

With a track record of serving more than 360+ clients in the U.S., DataTerrain ensures a controlled, efficient, and secure migration path.

A Future-Ready Oracle Database Environment

Migrating to Oracle 23c delivers improved performance, stronger security, and better automation.

By addressing challenges early and following proven practices, teams can achieve a stable, optimized, and scalable database environment. DataTerrain helps ensure a smooth upgrade experience and long-term operational value.