How to List All Tables in an Oracle Database?

Retrieving a List of Tables within an Oracle Database

Efficient table management is paramount for Oracle database administrators and developers. This article details several methods for querying and retrieving a complete list of tables within an Oracle database. The optimal approach depends on the user's privileges and the specific tables needing identification.

Methods for Listing Tables:

1. DBA_TABLES View:

This data dictionary view provides a comprehensive list of all tables in the database. However, access requires DBA privileges. The query is straightforward:

<code class="language-sql">SELECT owner, table_name
FROM dba_tables;</code>

2. ALL_TABLES View:

Users lacking DBA privileges can utilize the ALL_TABLES view to list tables accessible to their account. The query mirrors the previous example:

<code class="language-sql">SELECT owner, table_name
FROM all_tables;</code>

Remember, the ALL_TABLES view's output is a subset of the database's tables, limited by the user's permissions.

3. USER_TABLES View:

To list only tables owned by the current user, employ the USER_TABLES view. This simplifies the query:

<code class="language-sql">SELECT table_name
FROM user_tables;</code>

4. Legacy Views:

Oracle also maintains legacy views like TAB, DICT, TABS, and CAT. While functional, these are generally less efficient and less recommended than the newer views detailed above. They might be relevant only in specific backward compatibility scenarios.

By employing the most suitable method according to your access level and needs, you can efficiently manage and analyze your Oracle database tables.

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