Thanks for the question, Sampath.
Asked: March 27, 2025 - 4:50 am UTC
Last updated: May 07, 2025 - 1:30 am UTC
Version: 19C
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We are currently in the process of upgrading our Oracle database servers from RHEL 7 to RHEL 8. We are considering two possible approaches:
Migrating to a new server built with RHEL 8.
Performing an in-place upgrade on the existing server.
In both approaches, we intend to use ASMFD (ASM Filter Driver). However, Oracle Support has advised us to discontinue using ASMFD on RHEL 8, as it is not enabled by default. Instead, they recommend switching to ASMLIB.
That said, we see several advantages in continuing to use ASMFD, particularly in terms of I/O filtering and performance benefits. We’re curious to know if the claim about ASMFD not being supported on RHEL 8 or RHEL 9 is accurate.
If you’ve successfully implemented ASMFD on RHEL 8 or RHEL 9, we would love to hear about your experience. How did you make it work? Any insights or steps you followed would be greatly appreciated.
and Connor said...
However, Oracle Support has advised us to discontinue using ASMFD on RHEL 8, as it is not enabled by default. Instead, they recommend switching to ASMLIB.
Could you send me the SR# to asktom_us@oracle.com with the subject line being: Q9549439600346666447, because that does not sound correct.
ASMFD is what we recommend. ASMLIB is going to be eventually phased out. About ASMFD on RHEL, it is possible that sometimes the ASMFD is not available on a very recent RHEL release. We have added some prechecks so customer is made aware of this before the OS upgrade, possibly helping the customer plan this better. Also, these issues are somewhat mitigated by using OL as the kernel and the ASMFD availability is in sync
Some good MOS notes to refer to
Oracle Automatic Storage Management Filter Driver (ASMFD) (Doc ID 2806979.1)
ACFS and AFD Support On OS Platforms (Certification Matrix). (Doc ID 1369107.1)