Control Files
A control file is a small binary file that is created during database creation. A control file tracks many of the internal database functions, such as the structure of the database, datafile locations, synchronization information, and backup and recovery information. Anytime there is a major change in the structure of the database, such as when a redo log file is added, the control file is updated with the new information. During database startup, the control file opens the datafiles and redo log files.
There are views that can be used to display control file information.
Control File Information Views
| View | Displays |
|---|---|
| V$DATABASE | Database information from the control file. |
| V$CONTROLFILE | List of control file names. |
| V$CONTROLFILE_RECORD_SECTION | Information about control file record sections. |
| V$PARAMETER | Control file names as specified in the CONTROL_FILES initialization parameter. |