Keywords: Oracle Blockchain Table, Oracle 23ai, immutable data, blockchain in database, Oracle new features
Introduction
Blockchain technology isn’t just for cryptocurrencies—it’s now seamlessly integrated into Oracle Database through Oracle Blockchain Tables. Introduced in Oracle 21c and significantly enhanced in Oracle 23ai, this feature ensures data immutability and cryptographic security directly within your database.
This guide explores:
- What Oracle Blockchain Tables are
- Their practical applications
- Key upgrades in Oracle 23ai
What Is an Oracle Blockchain Table?
A Blockchain Table is a tamper-proof, insert-only table that cryptographically secures data like a traditional blockchain.
Key Features:
- ✅ Insert-only: No updates or deletes allowed.
- 🔐 Tamper-proof: Each row is linked via cryptographic hashes (e.g., SHA2_512).
- 🕒 Retention policies: Enforce minimum data retention periods (e.g., 16 days).
- 📄 Audit trails: Ideal for compliance, finance, and supply chain tracking.
👉 Learn how blockchain tables enhance data security
Why Use Blockchain Tables?
Blockchain tables are indispensable for:
- Financial ledgers: Prevent fraud with immutable transaction records.
- Regulatory compliance: Meet strict audit requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
- Supply chains: Track goods with verifiable, tamper-proof logs.
Oracle 23ai Upgrades
1. 🔁 GoldenGate Support
Replicate blockchain tables across databases while preserving immutability.
2. 🚀 Faster Inserts & Commits
Optimized for high-volume applications.
3. 🔧 Schema Flexibility
Add/drop columns without disrupting the hash chain.
4. 🔐 Delegate Signing
Allow users to sign rows on behalf of others; Oracle can counter-sign for added trust.
5. 🔍 Track Changes in Regular Tables
Use Flashback Archive with blockchain history tables for cryptographically secure audits.
👉 Explore Oracle 23ai’s new features
Practical Example
-- Create a Blockchain Table
CREATE BLOCKCHAIN TABLE bct_t1 (
id NUMBER PRIMARY KEY,
fruit VARCHAR2(20),
quantity NUMBER,
created_date DATE
) NO DELETE UNTIL 16 DAYS AFTER INSERT
HASHING USING "SHA2_512" VERSION "v2";
-- Insert data
INSERT INTO bct_t1 VALUES (1, 'Apple', 100, SYSDATE);
COMMIT;
-- Attempting an update fails
UPDATE bct_t1 SET quantity = 50 WHERE id = 1; -- ERROR: Immutable data! FAQs
Q: Can I modify retention periods after creation?
A: Yes, but only to increase retention days—never decrease.
Q: How do I verify data integrity?
A: Use DBMS_BLOCKCHAIN_TABLE.VERIFY_ROWS to check cryptographic hashes.
Q: Are blockchain tables suitable for high-throughput apps?
A: With Oracle 23ai’s performance optimizations, yes—but test for your specific workload.
Use Cases
- Financial audits: Immutable transaction logs.
- Supply chain tracking: Verify product provenance.
- Legal records: Tamper-proof contracts.
Final Thoughts
Oracle Blockchain Tables merge blockchain’s security with relational databases. Oracle 23ai’s upgrades—like GoldenGate support and schema flexibility—make them more versatile than ever.
For tamper-proof, audit-ready data, leverage Oracle’s built-in blockchain capabilities—no external platforms needed.