You initialize the data and log volumes of a database. During this process, the database catalog, application data and the database log entries are deleted. However, the database configuration (database parameters, number and definition of volumes etc.) is retained.
Initializing the database is necessary in the following cases:
Certain recovery situations
Example
After a training course, you want to restore the training course to its original state by importing a data backup which contains the original database state. By initializing the database before you restore the database, you delete the redo log entries, thus ensuring that all changes to the course database made by course participants are discarded.
Testing
Example
For your daily tests, you need an empty database. By initializing the database before each test, you do not need to create and configure a new database for each test.
Creating a database copy
Setting up a standby database
To initialize a database, use Database Studio or Database Manager CLI.
More information:
Database Studio, Initializing Databases
Database Manager CLI, db_activate