How to Change SYS User Password in Oracle: A Step-by-Step Guide

The SYS user in Oracle is a powerful and critical account that has unrestricted access to the Oracle database. This account is used for administrative tasks and managing the database instance. As a result, maintaining the security of the SYS user is of paramount importance to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your Oracle database. Changing the SYS user password on a regular basis is a security best practice that helps prevent unauthorized access and potential breaches. In this article, we will walk you through the process of changing the SYS user password in Oracle, complete with examples and explanations.

Prerequisites

Access to SQL*Plus: You'll need access to Oracle's command-line interface, SQL*Plus, or another compatible Oracle client.
SYSDBA Privileges: To change the SYS user password, you must have SYSDBA privileges, which are necessary for performing administrative tasks.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Connect to the Database

Open a terminal or command prompt and start SQL*Plus by typing:

sqlplus / as sysdba

This command connects you to the database with SYSDBA privileges.

Step 2: Verify Current Password

Before changing the password, it's essential to confirm the current password for the SYS user. Run the following SQL command:

SELECT PASSWORD FROM DBA_USERS WHERE USERNAME = 'SYS';

The output will display the hashed version of the current password.

Step 3: Change the Password

To change the SYS user password, use the ALTER USER statement. Replace <new_password> with the desired new password:

ALTER USER SYS IDENTIFIED BY "<new_password>";

Make sure to use strong and complex passwords to enhance security.

Step 4: Verify Password Change

After changing the password, verify that the password has indeed been updated. Run the following SQL query:

SELECT PASSWORD FROM DBA_USERS WHERE USERNAME = 'SYS';

Ensure that the password value has changed to the hashed version of the new password.

Step 5: Disconnect from SQL*Plus

Exit SQL*Plus by typing:

EXIT;

This will close the connection to the database.

Conclusion

Changing the SYS user password in Oracle is a crucial security practice to prevent unauthorized access to your database. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can effectively change the SYS user password while maintaining the integrity and security of your Oracle database. Remember to keep your passwords strong and unique, and consider regularly rotating passwords to enhance security even further.

Change Sys user password in Oracle