GoldenGate Microservices Architecture vs Classic: When to Use Which

Oracle GoldenGate ships in two distinct deployment architectures: the Classic Architecture (the original GGSCI-based model) and the Microservices Architecture (introduced in 18c, fully mature from 21c). Both replicate data using the same trail-file and process model under the hood, but they differ substantially in how processes are deployed, managed, and monitored. Choosing the wrong one for your use case adds unnecessary operational complexity. The Fundamental Difference Dimension Classic Microservices Management interface GGSCI command-line REST API + Web UI Process model OS-level processes managed by Manager Microservices managed by Service Manager Configuration storage Flat parameter files (.prm) Internal repository (configurable) Deployment unit Single installation per host Service-based; multiple deployments per host OCI/Cloud-native fit Requires custom automation Native REST/API; integrates with OCI GoldenGate Security Parameter-file credentials Credential store + wallet Multi-tenancy (CDB) Limited Full PDB-level pipeline isolation Classic Architecture: Operational Model In Classic, the Manager process is the parent for all Extract, Pump, and Replicat processes. You interact with the system via GGSCI (GoldenGate Software Command Interface). ...

March 1, 2026 · 4 min · mardaff