How to Install and Configure MySQL on Linux

MySQL is a powerful open-source relational database management system that is widely used for various applications. Installing and configuring MySQL on a Linux system is a fundamental skill for anyone involved in database management or web development. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process to install and configure MySQL on a Linux environment.

Prerequisites:
Before we begin, ensure that you have root or sudo access on your Linux server. Additionally, make sure your package manager is updated to the latest version.

Step 1: Update Package Lists

sudo apt update

Step 2: Install MySQL Server

sudo apt install mysql-server

Step 3: Start MySQL Service

sudo systemctl start mysql

Step 4: Secure MySQL Installation

sudo mysql_secure_installation

Follow the prompts to set a root password, remove anonymous users, disallow root login remotely, remove the test database, and reload privileges.

Step 5: Access MySQL Shell

sudo mysql -u root -p

Enter the root password when prompted.

Step 6: Create a New MySQL User and Database

CREATE DATABASE mydatabase;
CREATE USER 'myuser'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'mypassword';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON mydatabase.* TO 'myuser'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;

Replace 'mydatabase', 'myuser', and 'mypassword' with your preferred database name, username, and password.

Step 7: Exit MySQL Shell

exit;

Step 8: Test MySQL Connection

mysql -u myuser -p

Enter the password when prompted.

Step 9: Configure MySQL to Start on Boot

sudo systemctl enable mysql

Additional Tips:

Create a Database Backup:

mysqldump -u myuser -p mydatabase > backup.sql

Restore from Backup:

mysql -u myuser -p mydatabase < backup.sql

Change MySQL Port:
Edit MySQL configuration file:

sudo nano /etc/mysql/mysql.conf.d/mysqld.cnf

Change the port number and restart MySQL:

sudo systemctl restart mysql