Search Results service contracts




The CS_OKS_UPGRADE_PW table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) versions 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical data structure within the Contracts Core module (OKS). This table plays a pivotal role during system upgrades, specifically in managing password-related transformations or validations for contract service entities. Below is a detailed analysis of its purpose, structure, and functional relevance in Oracle EBS.

1. Purpose and Context

The CS_OKS_UPGRADE_PW table is primarily utilized during upgrade processes from earlier versions of Oracle EBS to 12.1.1 or 12.2.2. It serves as a staging or intermediary table that temporarily stores password-related data for contracts or service agreements during migration. This ensures data integrity and security compliance while transitioning legacy passwords or authentication mechanisms to newer standards.

2. Table Structure and Key Columns

While the exact schema may vary slightly between EBS 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, the table typically includes the following columns:
  • UPGRADE_ID: A unique identifier for the upgrade process.
  • CONTRACT_ID: References the contract or service agreement being upgraded.
  • OLD_PASSWORD_HASH: Stores the legacy password hash or encrypted value pre-upgrade.
  • NEW_PASSWORD_HASH: Captures the transformed or re-encrypted password post-upgrade.
  • STATUS_FLAG: Indicates the upgrade state (e.g., 'PENDING', 'COMPLETED', 'FAILED').
  • CREATION_DATE and LAST_UPDATE_DATE: Audit columns for tracking changes.

3. Functional Role in Upgrades

During an EBS upgrade, the Contracts Core module may require password re-encryption to align with enhanced security protocols. The CS_OKS_UPGRADE_PW table facilitates this by:
  • Interim Storage: Acting as a buffer for passwords during the transition phase.
  • Data Validation: Enabling verification of password transformations before final commit.
  • Error Handling: Logging failures for manual intervention if password upgrades encounter issues.

4. Integration with Other Modules

This table interacts closely with:
  • OKS Contracts Tables (e.g., OKS_K_HEADERS_B): Links upgraded passwords to respective contracts.
  • Oracle Security Modules: Ensures compatibility with Oracle's authentication frameworks.
  • Upgrade Utilities: Used by tools like AutoConfig or AD utilities during patch applications.

5. Technical Considerations

  • Data Sensitivity: Passwords are typically encrypted or hashed, adhering to Oracle's security standards.
  • Performance Impact: Bulk operations on this table during upgrades may require tuning (e.g., indexing on CONTRACT_ID).
  • Post-Upgrade Cleanup: The table may be purged after successful upgrades to reduce storage overhead.

6. Version-Specific Nuances

  • EBS 12.2.2: May include additional columns for multi-factor authentication (MFA) support.
  • EBS 12.1.1: Likely limited to basic password hashing algorithms (e.g., SHA-1).

7. Best Practices

  • Review upgrade scripts for dependencies on CS_OKS_UPGRADE_PW before patching.
  • Monitor this table during upgrades for failed records using the STATUS_FLAG.
  • Archive data post-upgrade for compliance, if required.
In summary, the CS_OKS_UPGRADE_PW table is a specialized component in Oracle EBS Contracts Core, ensuring secure and seamless password management during system upgrades. Its design reflects Oracle's emphasis on data security and upgrade reliability, particularly in complex modules like OKS.