Oracle continues to evolve its multitenant architecture with features that improve flexibility, availability, and control. One of the most impactful enhancements in Oracle Database 26ai is Hybrid Read-Only Mode—a smart balance between operational continuity and administrative control.
What is Hybrid Read-Only Mode?
Hybrid Read-Only Mode allows a Pluggable Database (PDB) to operate in a unique state where:
- Local users are restricted to read-only access
-
Common users (like
SYS,SYSTEM, or other CDB-level users) still have read-write privileges
This means that while application users can continue querying data, administrative users can still perform critical changes in the background.
How It Works
In a traditional setup:
- A READ ONLY PDB blocks all write operations (including admin tasks)
- A READ WRITE PDB allows full access to everyone
With Hybrid Read-Only Mode:
- Oracle introduces a middle ground
- Local users - No data modifications allowed
- Common users - Full administrative control remains intact
This separation ensures better governance and operational safety.
Comparison of Modes
Let's get our hands dirty and see how this feature works in a practical lab scenario. We'll use a PDB named ORCLPDB for this demonstration.
First, connect as a privileged user to the root container. You'll need to close the PDB before you can reopen it in the new hybrid state.
Close the PDB:-
Verify the State
Test the Access Levels
As a Local User
Hybrid Read-Only Mode in Oracle 26ai is a strategic enhancement that empowers administrators to maintain and patch databases with minimal disruption. It strikes a balance between operational safety and flexibility, making it a valuable tool in modern database management.
Oracle Document :- https://blogs.oracle.com/ace/how-to-use-the-new-hybrid-readonly-mode-for-pluggable-databases-in-oracle-database-23c-free-developer-release
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