SQL Query to Rename Database

Renaming a database in SQL Server is done to update or change the database name without affecting its data or structure. It is used to:

• Change the database name for better identification.
• Maintain consistency with project or application requirements.
• Organize databases during migrations or updates.

Query:

ALTER DATABASE old_database_name
MODIFY NAME = new_database_name;

Step 1: Create a Database

First, create a new database using the CREATE DATABASE statement.

CREATE DATABASE Test;

Output:

• The test database is created.

Step 2: Rename Database in SQL Server

In this example, we will use the ALTER command with MODIFY NAME clause to rename the database in SQL Server

ALTER DATABASE Test MODIFY NAME = Example;

Output:

• The database name is changed from Test to Example.

Troubleshooting Database Rename Issues

• Database in use: Close all active connections before renaming.
• Permission issue: Ensure you have admin or required privileges.
• Name rules: Follow DBMS naming conventions and avoid reserved words.