When you change the hostname of a machine running Oracle XE, the database listener may fail to start due to outdated configuration files. To resolve this issue, you need to manually update the hostname in the Oracle XE configuration files. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Steps to Change Host Name in Oracle XE

Step 1: Stop Database Listener and Service

Before editing the configuration files, stop the database listener and service to prevent conflicts.

Step 2: Locate the Configuration Directory

Navigate to the Oracle XE installation directory. Typically, the path looks like this:

<installation_directory>/app/oracle/product/<oracle_version>/server/NETWORK/ADMIN

Step 3: Update listener.ora

Edit the listener.ora file to replace the old hostname with the new one.

Example configuration:

LISTENER =
  (DESCRIPTION_LIST =
    (DESCRIPTION =
      (ADDRESS = (PROTOCOL = IPC)(KEY = EXTPROC_FOR_XE))
      (ADDRESS = (PROTOCOL = TCP)(HOST = <new_host_name>)(PORT = 1521))
    )
  )

Replace <new_host_name> with the updated hostname of the machine.

Step 4: Update tnsnames.ora

Edit the tnsnames.ora file to match the updated hostname.

Example configuration:

XE =
  (DESCRIPTION =
    (ADDRESS = (PROTOCOL = TCP)(HOST = <new_host_name>)(PORT = 1521))
    (CONNECT_DATA =
      (SERVER = DEDICATED)
      (SERVICE_NAME = XE)
    )
  )

Again, replace <new_host_name> with your new hostname.

Step 5: Start Listener and Service

After saving the changes, restart the database listener and service. Use the following commands to ensure they are running correctly:

lsnrctl start
sqlplus / as sysdba

Verify that the listener is functioning properly with:

lsnrctl status

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check File Permissions: Ensure you have sufficient permissions to edit the configuration files.
• Listener Status: Run lsnrctl status to check for errors after restarting.
• Firewall Settings: Ensure the listener port (default: 1521) is open in your firewall.

Conclusion

By updating the listener.ora and tnsnames.ora files with the new hostname, you can resolve listener errors caused by a hostname change in Oracle XE. This manual update ensures the database operates smoothly with the new system configuration.

Would you like more tips on managing Oracle XE configurations? 😊

Ahmad Gohar

With over 18 years of experience in software architecture, Java technologies, and leadership, I specialize in crafting scalable, future-proof solutions for global organizations. Whether it’s transforming legacy systems, building cutting-edge cloud-native applications, or mentoring teams to excel, I’m committed to delivering value-driven results.

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