Log Writer Slave Issues in 12.1.0.2 – mainly on IBM AIX and HP-UX but also on Linux

Currently we see a lot of issues with the Multiple Logwriter feature in Oracle Database 12.1.0.2, especially on the IBM AIX platform.

What are Multiple LGWRs?

You will see multiple LGnn (Log Writer Worker) processes on multiprocessor systems, The LGWR (Log Writer) creates worker processes (slaves) to improve the performance of writing to the redo log. LGnn (Log Writer Worker) processes are not used when there is a SYNC standby destination. Possible processes include LG00LG99.

Here is a list of new background processes in Oracle Database 12.1:
MOS Note 1625912.1 – New Background Processes In 12c 

For deep dive information about how to trace the LGWR (and DBWR) and the differences 11.2/12.1 and wait events and much more, please see this Deep Dive PDF from an UKOUG talk from Frits Hoogland.

Known Symptoms:

Solution:

Turn off multiple logwriters on IBM AIX and HP-UX – and I turn off multiple logwriters on Linux as well. We are seeing the issues mainly on IBM AIX and HP-UX.

Set in your spfile:

_use_single_log_writer=true

See also:

–Mike

Share this: