Replicas created with the option to register with existing data

This topic applies to ArcGIS for Desktop Standard and ArcGIS for Desktop Advanced only.

The option to register with existing data when creating a replica is available for users with large datasets or those that have identical data in two different geodatabases.

The replica creation process of copying data to another geodatabase and registering it can be time consuming on large datasets. If you have a fast method of transferring data between databases, such as a database dump, it may be easier to copy data from one database to another, then go through the Create Replica wizard with the option to register with existing data. This creates the replica versions needed to synchronize changes between the geodatabases but does not go through the lengthy process of copying data since it already exists in both locations.

The following are tips on using this method:

• You must make sure to add GlobalIDs to the data before you copy it to the other geodatabase. If you use functionality within ArcGIS to copy the data, make sure to use either copy and paste, data extraction, or XML workspace export and import.
• You must be connected as the owner of the data on the target geodatabase when creating the replica.
• Whatever filters are applied during the replica creation process also are applied to the data in the relative geodatabase.
• This option also works in disconnected environments.