What is a tablespace?

A database contains Logical Storage Unit called tablespaces. A tablespace is a set of related logical structures. Actually a tablespace groups related logical structures together.

In Oracle, a tablespace is a logical storage container that is used to organize and manage the physical storage of data within a database. It is a collection of one or more data files or data file groups, where each data file is associated with a specific tablespace.

Key points about tablespaces in Oracle:

  1. Logical Storage Unit: Tablespace is a logical storage unit where database objects like tables, indexes, and clusters are stored.
  2. Composed of Data Files: A tablespace is composed of one or more data files, which are physical files on the disk that store the actual data.
  3. Organization: It provides a way to organize and manage the storage of data within the database.
  4. Different Types: Oracle supports different types of tablespaces, such as the SYSTEM tablespace (contains core database objects), USER tablespaces (for user data and objects), TEMPORARY tablespaces (used for sorting and other temporary operations), and more.
  5. Control of Storage: It allows for control over storage characteristics such as data block size, extent management, and storage allocation.
  6. Separation of Data: The use of tablespaces allows for the separation of different types of data and can aid in performance optimization and maintenance tasks.

Overall, tablespaces play a crucial role in the management and organization of data within an Oracle database.