What is a major limitation of using Oracle GoldenGate with the Autonomous Database?

The limitation of using Oracle GoldenGate with the Autonomous Database stems from the fact that a cloud database, specifically the Oracle Autonomous Database, cannot be used as a source for replication. This restriction is significant because it emphasizes the architectural design of the Autonomous Database, which is fully managed and optimized by Oracle for performance and scalability within the cloud. It is designed for use primarily as a target platform rather than a source for replication processes.

Understanding this limitation is crucial for database architects and administrators who are considering data integration and replication strategies involving Oracle Autonomous Database. The nature of the service and its management by Oracle means there are certain operational constraints that must be respected to ensure data integrity, security, and optimal performance while leveraging the features of the cloud environment.