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ora 28374 typed master key not found in wallet

ora 28374 typed master key not found in wallet

4 min read 09-12-2024
ora 28374 typed master key not found in wallet

I cannot create a 1000-word article about the Oracle error "ORA-28374: typed master key not found in wallet" using only information from ScienceDirect. ScienceDirect is a database of scientific, technical, and medical research; it's unlikely to contain information about specific Oracle database error codes. This type of error is related to database administration and security, covered primarily in Oracle documentation and specialized IT forums.

However, I can create a comprehensive article about this error, explaining its cause, troubleshooting steps, and preventative measures. My information will be drawn from widely available Oracle documentation and best practices, rather than ScienceDirect.

The Oracle error "ORA-28374: typed master key not found in wallet" is a frustrating issue encountered when working with Oracle Wallet Manager, a crucial component for managing encryption keys used to secure sensitive data within an Oracle database. This error indicates that the database cannot locate the necessary master key within the configured wallet. This problem can significantly disrupt database operations, preventing access to encrypted data or even rendering certain database features unusable.

Understanding the Error

Before delving into troubleshooting, let's understand the components involved:

  • Oracle Wallet: A container holding cryptographic keys and certificates, protecting sensitive information like passwords and encryption keys. Think of it as a digital safe.
  • Typed Master Key: A specific type of key within the wallet, acting as a master key for other encryption keys. This key is crucial for decrypting and accessing data protected with these other keys.
  • Wallet Location: The location on the file system where the Oracle Wallet is stored. This location is specified during wallet creation and must be accurately configured within the database.

The ORA-28374 error arises when the database tries to access encrypted data but fails to find the typed master key in the designated wallet location. This can occur due to several reasons:

Common Causes and Troubleshooting

1. Incorrect Wallet Location:

  • Problem: The database is looking for the wallet in the wrong directory. This is a common mistake, especially after system configuration changes or migrations.
  • Solution: Verify the wallet location using the $ORACLE_HOME/bin/orapki utility or SQL*Plus. Compare the location specified in the database configuration to the actual location of the wallet. Correct the location if necessary using the appropriate Oracle commands. This often involves updating the WALLET_LOCATION parameter.

2. Corrupted Wallet:

  • Problem: The wallet file itself may be corrupted, preventing the database from accessing the typed master key.
  • Solution: Attempt to recreate the wallet. Back up any existing wallet contents if possible. Then, use the orapki utility to create a new wallet and import any necessary certificates. This might involve re-creating keys and re-encrypting data, so careful planning is essential.

3. Incorrect Wallet Password:

  • Problem: The password used to access the wallet is incorrect.
  • Solution: Verify the password used in the database configuration against the actual wallet password. If you have forgotten the password, use the orapki utility to reset it. Remember, resetting the password usually requires administrative privileges.

4. Permissions Issues:

  • Problem: The database user or process does not have the necessary permissions to access the wallet files.
  • Solution: Check file system permissions on the wallet directory. Ensure the Oracle database user has read and execute access to the wallet directory and its contents. Consult Oracle documentation for specific permission requirements for your operating system.

5. Wallet Not Open:

  • Problem: The wallet might not be open or correctly initialized.
  • Solution: Use the orapki utility to open the wallet and confirm it is accessible before attempting to access the encrypted data.

6. Incorrect Key Configuration:

  • Problem: The type or identifier of the typed master key might be misconfigured within the database.
  • Solution: This is a more advanced issue that requires careful review of the database configuration concerning encryption keys. Review the parameters related to key management and ensure they match the actual key setup within the wallet. Oracle support might be necessary for complex key configurations.

Preventative Measures

To minimize the risk of encountering ORA-28374:

  • Regular Backups: Regularly back up both the database and the wallet to ensure data recovery in case of corruption or accidental deletion.
  • Secure Wallet Storage: Store the wallet in a secure location with appropriate access controls.
  • Strict Password Management: Use strong and unique passwords for the wallet, and store them securely.
  • Documentation: Maintain detailed documentation of wallet location, passwords, and key configurations.
  • Regular Auditing: Regularly audit your wallet configuration and access to minimize risks.

Practical Example (Simplified)

Let's imagine a scenario: You're working with an Oracle database that uses encryption for sensitive customer data. After a server reboot, you attempt to access this data and encounter the ORA-28374 error.

First, check the wallet location specified in your database configuration. If this location is incorrect (e.g., due to a misconfigured environment variable), the error will occur. Correcting the path resolves the problem.

If the path is correct, but the error persists, try opening the wallet using orapki. If this fails, investigate file permissions or potential wallet corruption. As a last resort, consider recreating the wallet and re-importing necessary keys.

Remember, working with encryption and Oracle Wallet Manager requires expertise in database administration and security. If the problem persists despite these troubleshooting steps, engaging Oracle support or a qualified database administrator is strongly recommended. They can provide assistance with advanced diagnostics and resolving complex issues related to encryption key management.

This article provides a more comprehensive overview of ORA-28374 than could be achieved solely using ScienceDirect, combining general knowledge about database security and error handling with specific guidance for troubleshooting this particular error. Remember to always consult Oracle's official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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