📋Steps in this guide1/11

Step-by-Step Guide to Install Oracle AI Database 26ai Free on Oracle Linux 9

Learn how to install Oracle AI Database 26ai Free on Oracle Linux 9 step-by-step. Perfect for DBAs, learners, and developers exploring Oracle’s AI database.

oracle configurationintermediate

by OracleDba

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System Requirements (Free Edition Limits)

The Free Edition comes with these limits: This lightweight footprint makes it ideal for learning, labs, or small proof-of-concept deployments.

Step 1: Configure Hostname and Hosts File

First, set the hostname and update your file:

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[root@OL95 ~]# vi /etc/hosts
192.168.1.31 OL95DB

[root@OL95 ~]# vi /etc/hostname
OL95DB

Step 2: Prepare the Local Repository

Mount the Oracle Linux ISO and create a local repository for package installation: Now create the repo file : Add:

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[root@OL95DB ~]# mkdir /dvd
[root@OL95DB ~]# mount /dev/sr0 /dvd
mount: /dvd: WARNING: source write-protected, mounted read-only.
[root@OL95DB ~]# rm -rf /etc/yum.repos.d/*

[root@OL95DB ~]# vi /etc/yum.repos.d/OL9.repo

[InstallMedia-BaseOS]
name=Oracle Linux 9 - BaseOS
baseurl=file:///dvd/BaseOS/
metadata_expire=-1
gpgcheck=0
enabled=1

[InstallMedia-AppStream]
name=Oracle Linux 9 - AppStream
baseurl=file:///dvd/AppStream/
metadata_expire=-1
gpgcheck=0
enabled=1

Step 2: Download the Oracle 23ai Free RPM Package

Oracle provides the 23ai Free package as a simple RPM file. We’ll download it directly from Oracle’s official website. Navigate to the Oracle 23ai Free download page: https://www.oracle.com/database/technologies/xe-downloads.html Accept the license agreement and copy the link for the Oracle Linux 9 RPM . Back in your terminal, use to download it. (Replace the URL if a newer version is available) .

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

1
2

wget
https://download.oracle.com/otn-pub/otn_software/db-express/oracle-database-23ai-free-1.0-1.el9.x86_64.rpm

Step 3: Install the Pre-Install RPM (Crucial Step!)

Oracle provides a special RPM that automatically handles all the operating system prerequisites for you, such as creating the user and installing required packages. This is a huge time-saver! Install it using : This step will take a few minutes. You’ll see it creating the user, groups, and installing numerous dependency packages.

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

sudo
dnf
-y
install
oracle-database-preinstall-23ai

Step 4: Install the Oracle 23ai Free RPM

Now, install the main database RPM package we downloaded in Step 2. You can use either or , but automatically handles dependencies better. What to expect during installation: - The package is quite large (about 1.3 GB) The package is quite large (about 1.3 GB) - The transaction will run several checks The transaction will run several checks - You’ll see the progress of the installation You’ll see the progress of the installation - Crucially, you’ll see this success message: Crucially, you’ll see this success message: This confirms the software is installed but the database instance isn’t created yet. The installation is complete when you see “Complete!” at the end.

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

sudo
dnf
-y
localinstall oracle-ai-database-free-26ai-23.26.0-1.el9.x86_64.rpm

[INFO] Executing post installation scripts...
[INFO] Oracle home installed successfully and ready to be configured.
To configure Oracle AI Database Free, optionally modify the parameters in '/etc/sysconfig/oracle-free-26ai.conf' and then run '/etc/init.d/oracle-free-26ai configure' as root.

Step 5: Review Configuration File

Before configuration, check the file : Key parameters: You can adjust values like listener port , database file path , or TDE encryption if required.

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[root@OL95DB ~]# cat /etc/sysconfig/oracle-free-26ai.conf

CHARSET=AL32UTF8
CONFIGURE_TDE=false
SKIP_VALIDATIONS=false

Step 6: Configure the Database

Run the configuration script: During setup, you’ll be prompted for passwords (for SYS , SYSTEM , and PDBADMIN ). Sample output: Log file location: Connection strings: - Container Database: - Pluggable Database:

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[root@OL95DB ~]# /etc/init.d/oracle-free-26ai configure

Database creation complete.
Global Database Name: FREE
SID: FREE

/opt/oracle/cfgtoollogs/dbca/FREE/FREE.log

Step 7: Set Environment Variables

Switch to the Oracle user and edit : Add: Reload the profile:

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[oracle@OL95DB ~]$ vi ~/.bash_profile

export ORACLE_SID=FREE
export ORACLE_BASE=/opt/oracle
export ORACLE_HOME=/opt/oracle/product/26ai/dbhomeFree
export PATH=$PATH:$ORACLE_HOME/bin

source ~/.bash_profile

Step 8: Connect to the Database

Now connect to your AI-powered Oracle Database: Expected output: Check available PDBs: Your Oracle AI Database 26ai Free instance is now ready for development and AI experimentation !

Code/Command (click line numbers to comment):

[oracle@OL95DB ~]$ sqlplus "/as sysdba"

Connected to:
Oracle AI Database 26ai Free Release 23.26.0.0.0 - Develop, Learn, and Run for Free

SQL> show pdbs;

    CON_ID CON_NAME     OPEN MODE  RESTRICTED
---------- ------------- ---------- ----------
         2 PDB$SEED     READ ONLY  NO
         3 FREEPDB1     READ WRITE NO

Final Thoughts

Oracle AI Database 26ai marks a major step forward — blending traditional database power with built-in AI and vector capabilities. This free version is an excellent playground for DBAs , AI developers , and students looking to explore the future of intelligent databases. At Learnomate Technologies , we make sure you not only understand such cutting-edge features but also know how to implement them in real-world projects. Whether you’re a beginner looking to break into the database world or an experienced professional upgrading your skillset—we’ve got your back with the most practical, hands-on training in Oracle technologies. Happy Vibes! ANKUSH Follow us for more Oracle DBA and Cloud tutorials: 👉 YouTube | Website | LinkedIn

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