Copy datafiles

I have test database on one server but the data is too old. I need to refresh that data from production.
What is best way.

Export/import, RMAN, clone, cold backup, etc.

But don't forget about the implications of any Data Protection legislation that you may be subject to. Using LIVE data in a test environment setup you up for a BIG fall.

export/import is the easiest way to go if you have a small database. You can also just export/import tables of interest if you don't need the entire database. Also can be good if the structure has changed. You can drop the structure in the old and import it with the data from the newer source.

clp