How do I reset the Oracle alert log?

Products

• Data Loss Prevention Enforce
• Data Loss Prevention Oracle Standard Edition 2

Issue/Introduction

When looking for performance increases in the database, something that can be reviewed is the Oracle Alert logs. If the alert log is getting too big, you may want to reduce the size for easier review.

Environment

Oracle 19.x and above

Cause

Oracle never resets the Alert log, it will continue to grow for the life of the database. 

Resolution

You can perform one of the following actions to remediate (listed in order of preference):

1. Move the alert log to a different directory/drive/server.
2. Compress the alert log.
3. Delete the alert log.

The next time the Oracle database needs to write a message into the log it will recreate the file.

 

 

Additional Information

To find the Oracle Alert log: Where is Oracle Alert Log (https://knowledge.broadcom.com/external/article/160576/where-is-the-oracle-alertprotectlog.html)