---
name: "kdb_init"
section: "8"
platform: "linux"
package: "kerberos4kth-kdc"
version: "1.2.2-11.2"
release: "Debian 3.1 (Sarge)"
platforms: ["linux"]
url: "https://new.carta.tech/kdb_init"
---

# kdb\_init(8)

Initialize Kerberos key distribution center database

## NAME

**kdb\_init** – Initialize Kerberos key distribution center database

## SYNOPSIS

**kdb\_init** \[*realm*\]

## DESCRIPTION

**kdb\_init** initializes a Kerberos key distribution center database, creating the necessary principals.

If the optional *realm* argument is not present, **kdb\_init** prompts for a realm name. After determining the realm to be created, it prompts for a master key password.  The master key password is used to encrypt every encryption key stored in the database.

## DIAGNOSTICS

- /var/kerberos/principal: File exists

  An attempt was made to create a database on a machine which already had an existing database.

## FILES

- */var/kerberos/principal.pag*, */var/kerberos/principal.dir*

  DBM files containing database

## SEE ALSO

[kdb\_destroy(8)](/kdb_destroy/8.md)