Clone a database. A clone database can be used for decision-support analysis, reporting, development, or testing.

Recover the primary database if it is corrupted by either taking over the primary role or performing a reverse resync. With online_snapshot you cannot roll forward any logs because the primary and secondary log sequences are different.

Back up the primary database on the same or a different host.

Create a "hot backup" image.

Back up the primary database on the same host at the operating system level using different set of storage.

Perform a point-in-time recovery of the primary database if it becomes corrupted. With online_mirror, it is possible to roll forward to recover changes to your database.

Clone your production database if it is offline. A clone database can be used for decision-support analysis, reporting, development, or testing.

Back up your production database if it is offline.