The short answer: Oracle software downloaded from the Oracle Technology Network (OTN) is free, but only for limited purposes. Oracle’s OTN license allows you to use the programs “only for the purpose of developing, testing, prototyping, and demonstrating your applications”. It does not allow internal data processing, production or any other commercial use. Run OTN-downloaded software in production and you need a full license.
What is the Oracle Technology Network (OTN)?
The Oracle Technology Network is the largest publicly available repository of Oracle technical documentation and of Oracle software to download for development and testing. Developers use it to learn, build and test solutions. It gives access to:
- A community of Oracle experts and its support forums
- Learning on the latest technologies
- Solutions built on Oracle
- Oracle software
All of this is free. Companies and individuals need to understand what “free” means here, and the license restrictions that come with the download. For software asset managers focusing on Oracle, these entitlements and obligations matter.
The OTN license agreement explained
Entitlements:
- The software is full use.
- The license is not a 30-day trial license.
- Although it is called the Oracle Technology Network License Agreement, software across operating systems, technology and applications is available to download and use under it.
Restrictions:
- The software can be used only for developing, testing, prototyping and demonstrating your applications.
- The software can be used only internally.
- The application must not have been used for data processing, business, commercial or production purposes.
- Your contractors can use the software, but you are liable for their compliance with the agreement.
- The licenses cannot be used for third-party training.
- Results of any benchmark tests cannot be disclosed.
Is there a free Oracle database for production?
Yes, with limits. Oracle Database Free is distributed under Oracle’s Free Use Terms and Conditions, which allow internal business operations as well as development and testing. Oracle limits it to two CPU threads for foreground processing, 2 GB of memory and 12 GB of user data, with one installation per logical environment. Beyond that, you need a paid license, and software downloaded under the OTN license stays restricted to development and testing.
Why OTN licenses are hard to manage
- Software downloaded from OTN is the same code as commercially licensed software. You cannot tell a development license from a commercial license by looking at the installed code.
- Developers often do not understand what the OTN license restrictions mean.
We recommend three ways to manage OTN licenses:
- Teach every developer in the organization the license restrictions.
- Approve software downloads centrally.
- Document every license.
Free development licenses from other publishers
Most large software companies offer free software for development under their own programs:
- Oracle: OTN and OPN
- Microsoft: MSDN
- Red Hat: Developer Program
- IBM: Developer
Managing free development licenses from any publisher is critical to a successful software asset management program. Done well, it avoids non-compliance costs and lowers software development expenses. Rythium’s software asset management platform, Euladox, manages these licenses with an agreement repository in its contract management module, separation of development assets, and notifications for the actions development licenses need.
Questions customers ask about free Oracle software
Is Oracle OTN software free?
It is free to download and to use for developing, testing, prototyping and demonstrating your applications. Any production or internal business use needs a paid license.
Can I use OTN software in production?
No. The OTN license excludes internal data processing and any production or commercial purpose. Oracle treats such use as unlicensed, and it is a common finding in Oracle audits.
Is Oracle Java free under OTN?
Java has its own terms. Recent Oracle JDK releases are free under the Oracle No-Fee Terms and Conditions for a limited period, after which updates move to the OTN license, which is not free for production use. Read how Oracle’s Java licensing has changed.
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