Services

Oracle

Overview

Our current version is Oracle Database 18c Release 18.3.0.0.0 - 64bit Production running on a host named Artemis. This is a new instance that has replaced Apollo, an Oracle 10g system.

Please read the information on this page carefully if you are trying to connect to Apollo.

Students registered for the following courses get access to Oracle automatically:

  • AIT 524
  • AIT 580
  • AIT 614
  • AIT 622
  • AIT 690
  • CS 450
  • CS 504
  • CS 550
  • CS 755
  • INFS 311
  • INFS 414
  • INFS 614
  • INFS 740
  • INFS 755
  • INFS 760
  • ISA 765
  • IT 308
  • IT 314
  • IT 414
  • SWE 432
  • SWE 632
  • SWE 642
  • SWE 645

How do I get access to Oracle?

First, you need to set up your Oracle database account. Students are eligible when registered for a course that uses Oracle (see above) or when sponsored by faculty, e.g. for research. Students not currently taking a class should ask their faculty sponsor to send the request for access to cechelp@gmu.edu .

Activate your account on GMU's Oracle Database server

You can activate your Oracle account by going to https://access.vse.gmu.edu/oracle2/index.html

You must be connected via the campus network or VPN to connect to the access site.

How to connect to Oracle

If you are off campus you MUST first connect to the VPN. You can find more information on the VPN page.

There are three methods of connecting to Oracle. Follow your instructors directions as to which method to use.

Command line access to Oracle through SSH to zeus.cec.gmu.edu

  1. If you are off campus (this includes the dorms) you need to first connect to the VPN
  2. Then SSH to zeus.cec.gmu.edu. On Windows you can use PuTTY. On Linux, or on a Mac, you can use Terminal and enter the command
    ssh your-gmu-netid@zeus.cec.gmu.edu

    Mac users can find the Terminal app in Applications \ Utilities.
  3. Once you are connected to zeus you run the command sqlplus and enter your Oracle username and password when prompted.

The SQL Developer GUI

  1. Download and install SQL Developer from
    https://www.oracle.com/tools/downloads/sqldev-downloads.html
    You will be required to create a free Oracle account in order to download the software. Your GMU ID will not work here.
  2. If you are off campus (this includes the dorms) connect to the VPN
  3. Create a new connection using the following settings:
Username:Enter your GMU NetID here. Omit @gmu.edu or @masonlive.gmu.edu.
Password:Enter the password provided at access.vse.gmu.edu. Your GMU password will not work here.
Hostname:artemis.vsnet.gmu.edu
Port:1521
Service Name:vse18c.vsnet.gmu.edu

Your connection settings should look similar to this screenshot:

  1. Click the "Test" button to verify that the settings are correct
  2. Click the "Save" button

What are the jdbc connection parameters for Oracle?

  • Name: artemis.vsnet.gmu.edu
  • Port: 1521
  • Service Name: vse18c.vsnet.gmu.edu

The connection string should be

jdbc:oracle:thin:@artemis.vsnet.gmu.edu:1521/vse18c.vsnet.gmu.edu

Where can I obtain the latest JDBC drivers?

The necessary software can be obtained from the Oracle web site on their JDBC Downloads Page.

IMPORTANT: You will need to have or create an Oracle account to access the downloads. Be sure and select "Create Account" as Oracle's web site does not participate in Mason's identity management systems. (Your Mason NetID and password WILL NOT work to log in to the Oracle web site.)

I entered my password incorrectly, and my account is locked

Your account should unlock itself after about 20 minutes.

How do I change my Oracle password?

You can change your Oracle password here. Click "Manage Account" on the right hand side. Your password for the VSE Oracle database system is different than your GMU password (that you use to log in to Patriot Web), and your account on the Oracle web site (oracle.com).

Who can I contact if I have a problem with Oracle?

It depends on the kind of problem. If it is related to SQL commands or query errors, please refer to your instructor or class TA. If it is related specifically to your oracle account or the Oracle systems, please email the Oracle administrator at oracle ((at)) vse.gmu.edu.

If the problem is related to UNIX commands or systems, please ask a lab assistant or email the problem description(s) to system@vse.gmu.edu .