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The FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical repository table that manages and controls the execution of PL/SQL procedures within the application framework. This table serves as a security and validation mechanism, ensuring that only authorized PL/SQL procedures can be executed via Oracle EBS, thereby preventing unauthorized or potentially harmful code execution. It is part of the Oracle Application Object Library (FND) and plays a key role in maintaining the integrity and security of the EBS environment.

Purpose and Functionality

The primary purpose of the FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table is to maintain a whitelist of PL/SQL procedures that are permitted to run within Oracle EBS. This is particularly important in a multi-tier architecture where PL/SQL procedures may be invoked from various sources, including web interfaces, concurrent programs, and API calls. The table ensures that only approved procedures can be executed, mitigating risks such as SQL injection or unauthorized data manipulation.

Key Columns and Structure

The table typically contains the following key columns:

  • PROCEDURE_NAME: Stores the fully qualified name of the PL/SQL procedure (e.g., APPS.AP_INVOICES_PKG.VALIDATE_INVOICE).
  • ENABLED_FLAG: A flag indicating whether the procedure is enabled for execution (values: 'Y' or 'N').
  • DESCRIPTION: A brief description of the procedure's purpose.
  • CREATION_DATE and LAST_UPDATE_DATE: Audit columns tracking when the record was created or modified.
  • CREATED_BY and LAST_UPDATED_BY: Audit columns identifying the user who created or last updated the record.

Integration with Oracle EBS Security

The FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table integrates with Oracle EBS's security framework, particularly with the FND_FUNCTION and FND_FORM_FUNCTIONS tables, to enforce procedural-level access control. When a PL/SQL procedure is invoked, the EBS framework checks this table to verify if the procedure is enabled. If the procedure is not listed or is marked as disabled (ENABLED_FLAG = 'N'), the execution is blocked, and an error is returned.

Usage in Customizations and Extensions

In custom implementations, developers must ensure that any new PL/SQL procedures intended for use within EBS are registered in the FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table. This is typically done using the FND_PROGRAM or FND_PLSQL_API packages, which provide methods to add, update, or disable procedures programmatically. Failure to register custom procedures can result in runtime errors or security violations.

Impact on Patching and Upgrades

During Oracle EBS upgrades or patch applications, the FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table may be updated to reflect new or modified procedures delivered by Oracle. Administrators should review these changes to ensure compatibility with existing customizations. Additionally, custom entries should be preserved during upgrades to avoid disruptions.

Best Practices

  • Regularly audit the FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table to identify and remove obsolete or unused procedures.
  • Use the Oracle-provided APIs (FND_PROGRAM) to manage entries rather than direct DML operations.
  • Document all custom entries to facilitate troubleshooting and upgrades.
  • Monitor the table for unauthorized changes, which could indicate a security breach.

Conclusion

The FND_ENABLED_PLSQL table is a foundational component of Oracle EBS's security architecture, ensuring that only authorized PL/SQL procedures are executed. Its proper management is essential for maintaining system integrity, security, and performance. Administrators and developers must understand its structure, functionality, and integration points to effectively leverage its capabilities in both standard and customized EBS environments.