# Initialization in batches

The address data initialization now reads existing records in configurable batches and can be paused and resumed.

**Version:** 18.11

## What's new

The initialization of the address directory in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central runs in separately saved batches per source table. A dedicated page shows the progress per source table and offers actions to run single or all remaining batches, to continue in the background, and to reset or skip a source table. Existing address data is no longer deleted during initialization; the validation status of validated and manually checked addresses is preserved.

## Benefit

Large data sets can be initialized in small steps without locking the database for a long time. An interrupted initialization resumes where it left off instead of starting over.

## Where it is set up

You set the batch size with the **Initialization Batch Size** field in the [Address Validation Setup](../../setup/address-validation-setup.mdx). You start and follow the initialization itself through [Initialize address data](../../setup/address-data-initialization.mdx).

## See also

- [Initialize address data](../../setup/address-data-initialization.mdx)