Compatibility Issues

While migrating between database management systems, it is important to check the versions before starting the migration process. Because not all the versions of MySQL are compatible with every version of MariaDB. There exist some restrictions. We have provided a table of compatibility for you to refer to before migrating. 

Table To Check Version Compatibility

MySQL MariaDB
5.1 5.1, 5.2, 5.3
5.5 5.5
5.6 10.0, 10.1
5.7 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5
8.0

Simple Steps Migration From MySQL To MariaDB On Linux

MySQL and MariaDB are two different Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS). Superficially, both of these software look and act in the same way. But there are many technical differences between them. So, before diving into the steps for migration, let’s first understand what is MySQL and MariaDB as well as their key features. 

Similar Reads

What is MySQL?

MySQL is a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) developed by Oracle. It is based on Structured Query Language (SQL). It is one of the most popular software out there in the market for maintaining databases....

Key Features of MySQL

Speed – MySQL runs very fast in optimal server hardware. Ease of use – MySQL is a relatively simple-to-use software. The introduction of graphical interfaces such as MySQL workbench has reduced its complexity. Cost – MySQL is available free of cost. But the enterprise version of the same is not free. Portability – MySQL is a cross-platform software and it is tested to work on different compilers.  Data type – MySQL supports fixed as well as variable length records.  Security – MySQL allows host-based security. Password encryption is also available.  Scalability – MySQL can support colossal databases. Some existing databases contain around 50 million records in them. Connectivity – MySQL supports a wide range of connection protocols which makes networking, a smooth task. Localization – Error messages in MySQL can be found in many different languages thus enhancing localization. Availability of tools – MySQL has many client and utility programs which include MySQL administrator MySQL query browser, etc....

What is MariaDB?

MariaDB is also an RDBMS that was developed based on MySQL, by Michael “Monty” Widenius. It is a drop-in replacement for MySQL. It is a fork of the MySQL project and is community-developed. It was originally forked to focus more on enterprise features rather than web/internet applications. Thus MariaDB is a successor of MySQL....

Key Features of MariaDB

Open-source – MariaDB is meant to remain open-source under the GNU general public license. Support for SQL – MariaDB has SQL support. Hence, if you know how to work with MySQL, then it is easy to learn MariaDB. JSON and GIS – New versions of MariaDB has JavaScript Object Notation and Geographical Information System features. This ensures compatibility with various GIS tools. Robust – MariaDB is fast, scalable, and has a robust design. Support for big data – MariaDB is ideal for big data applications. Languages – MariaDB is written in C, C++, Pearl, and bash. Storage engines – Apart from standard storage engines, MariaDB comes with additional engines that include ColumnStore, MyRocks, Spider, Cassandra, and many others. Security – Plugins like the unix_socket authentication plugin help in keeping the databases secure....

Why should we use MariaDB instead of MySQL?

MariaDB is a lightweight software which means it consumes less memory in the system. MariaDB provides more transparency. It has a public bug tracker and email support system. The size of  MariaDB’s community has been increasing rapidly and is getting larger than that of MySQL. A large community will help you in solving technical issues easily. Many speed improvements have been accommodated by MariaDB such as the FLUSH SSL command which lets you reload an SSL certificate without restarting the system.  There are fewer warnings and bugs in MariaDB when compared to MySQL. MariaDB provides better testing facilities such as the removal of invalid tests. Most important of all, MariaDB is truly open-source software that doesn’t have any closed-source modules like the ones that can be seen in MySQL Enterprise Edition....

Steps To Migrate

Process of Migration from MySQL to MariaDB...

Simple Steps Migration From MySQL To MariaDB On Linux

Step1 : Backup...

MySQL  Monitor:

Creating a new database in MySQL Monitor...

MariaDB Monitor:

Viewing the imported database- GFG_db in MariaDB monitor....

Compatibility Issues

While migrating between database management systems, it is important to check the versions before starting the migration process. Because not all the versions of MySQL are compatible with every version of MariaDB. There exist some restrictions. We have provided a table of compatibility for you to refer to before migrating....

Conclusion

It is clear that one may need to migrate from MySQL to MariaDB for various reasons ranging from seeking community support to going, lightweight. Anyways, the migration process is that simple. All you have to do is to take a backup of your data before removing MySQL and restore the data after installing MariaDB. Wishing you good luck for a safe migration!...

Contact Us