This module adds more depth to our prior discussion of Net8 architecture. We will look at the Net8 components and at all of the parameter files, including the tnsnames.ora, listener.ora, protocol.ora, and sqlnet.ora files. We will also see how the pieces fit together and how Net8 uses these files to establish database communications.

After completing this module, you will be able to:

1. Describe the syntax and function of Net8 parameter files
2. Define the components of Oracle network tools
3. Describe the components and functions of the tnsnames.ora file
4. Explain how the protocol.ora file operates
5. Explain the purpose and uses of the sqlnet.ora file
6. Establish Net8 communications at the process level
7. Explain the purpose and syntax of Oracle database links
8. Establish connections over database links

We will begin the module by looking at the syntax and function of the Net8 parameter files.