Function of the Oracle Control Files

The control files are used to keep and verify the oracle database integrity.

If the control file is missing, the database will not work
Do not try to edit or modify the Oracle control files
In case the control files are not available, a recovery procedure should be performed

Control Files storage considerations

Since these files are critical, it is recommended to store both files in different physical disks.
In case of hard disk failure, system can be recovered from an backup or the immediate
available control file.

How to identify the location of the Oracle Control files

1. Connect to the database using SQL*plus

SQL> select * from v$controlfile;

Response:

STATUS
-------
NAME
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

E:ORACLEORADATAJDECONTROL01.CTL


E:ORACLEORADATAJDECONTROL02.CTL


E:ORACLEORADATAJDECONTROL03.CTL