How can I confirm a database is Oracle & what version it is using SQL?

Question

I'm building an installer for an application. The user gets to select a data source they have configured and nominate what type of database it is. I want to confirm that the database type is indeed Oracle, and if possible, what version of Oracle they are running by sending a SQL statement to the data source.

Answer 1

Try to run the SQL as follows:

select * from v$version;

And you'll get the result like this:

BANNER

----------------------------------------------------------------

Oracle Database 10g Release 10.2.0.3.0 - 64bit Production

PL/SQL Release 10.2.0.3.0 - Production

CORE    10.2.0.3.0      Production

TNS for Solaris: Version 10.2.0.3.0 - Production

NLSRTL Version 10.2.0.3.0 - Production