Database Operations: RENAME Database

The RENAME DATABASE statement allows you to rename an existing database in a relational database management system (RDBMS). This operation is important when you want to change the name of an existing database for various reasons such as organizational restructuring, rebranding, and more.

Syntax

RENAME DATABASE current_name TO new_name;

• RENAME DATABASE is the statement used for renaming a database.
• current_name is the current name of the database.
• new_name is the new name of the database.

Example

Let's consider an example where you want to rename a database named "testdb" to "newdb". Here's what the SQL statement would look like:

RENAME DATABASE testdb TO newdb;

Output

Once executed, the RENAME DATABASE statement will initiate an operation that will rename the testdb database to newdb. If successful, the database's new name can be used in all future operations.

Explanation

The RENAME DATABASE statement is used to rename databases in an RDBMS. If the database is being actively used by any application or users, it should be closed before executing the RENAME DATABASE statement. During the rename operation, all related metadata of the database, including its schema, tables, indexes, and other related objects, will also be updated.

Use

The RENAME DATABASE statement is helpful when you want to change the name of your database due to various reasons, such as:

• Updating your branding.
• Reorganizing your products and services.
• Refactoring the database schema.

Important Points

• The RENAME DATABASE statement does not affect any data or database structure; it only changes the database name in the RDBMS.
• Any views or procedures using the old database name will need to be updated to reflect the new name.
• Some RDBMS may require administrative permissions or server-level privileges to execute the RENAME DATABASE statement.

Summary

The RENAME DATABASE statement is used to rename an existing database in an RDBMS. The statement changes the name of the database in the RDBMS metadata without affecting any data or database structure. The renaming operation can be useful for rebranding or organizational restructuring. View and procedure names using the old database name should be updated to reflect the new name after the operation is complete.