Resolve ORA-46680 by Exporting Container Database Master Keys

Understanding ORA-46680 Error

The ORA-46680 error is a master keys export issue that arises when the master keys of a container database are not exported. This error is critical to address before executing the PDB Unplug operation.

Prerequisites for Exporting Master Keys

To export master keys from an Oracle database, ensure IAM policies are in place. Users on MacOS and Linux must have OpenSSL 1.1.1 series installed and patched for RSA encryption algorithm compatibility with the AES key. For Windows environments, Git Bash is required to run necessary commands.

Exporting Master Keys Step by Step

Begin by generating an RSA key pair, which is used to wrap and unwrap the key material. Follow provided example scripts to wrap the key material appropriately. Prior to unplugging a PDB, especially after cloning, export the container database's master keys to prevent the ORA-46680 error.

Key Takeaways

Addressing the ORA-46680 master key error involves exporting the master keys of the container database. Ensure compliance with system requirements and follow the correct procedures to successfully export the keys and avoid the error during the PDB Unplug command.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ORA-46680 error in Oracle?

ORA-46680 is a database error that occurs when trying to unplug a PDB after cloning because the master keys of the container database must be exported.

When does ORA-46680 occur?

ORA-46680 occurs during the PDB Unplug command after a PDB has been cloned and the master keys of the container database have not been exported.

Why must the master keys of the container database be exported to avoid ORA-46680?

The master keys must be exported to ensure the PDB can be unplugged properly without encountering the ORA-46680 error, as the keys are required for vault cryptographic operations.

How can I export master keys to resolve ORA-46680?

To export master keys, you must generate your own RSA key pair with a third-party tool to wrap and unwrap the key material, and then use the CLI to export the keys, referring to example scripts as needed.

Can I export master keys from the Oracle database GUI to solve ORA-46680?

No, you can only export master keys using the CLI.

Common Use Cases

• 
  Enable secure backup and recovery operations for a container database
• 
  Facilitate the cloning of a pluggable database (PDB) to another container database
• 
  Support the transportation of a PDB to a different container database
• 
  Ensure encryption key continuity during database upgrades or migrations
• 
  Comply with regulatory requirements for cryptographic key management in a multi-tenant database environment

Sourcetable as an Alternative to ORA-46680 Master Key Exports

Explore Sourcetable for a simplified data management experience, eliminating the need for complex master key exports such as ORA-46680 from container databases. Sourcetable centralizes data access.

With Sourcetable's real-time querying capabilities, users bypass traditional database export challenges. The platform's spreadsheet-like interface provides immediate data manipulation without advanced database knowledge.

Unify your data handling processes by adopting Sourcetable, an intuitive solution designed to streamline data queries and management, ensuring efficiency and ease of use.