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Friday, April 26, 2024

How to Move MySQL Datadir to an alternate location

In this guide, we'll walk through the process of changing the MySQL data directory to a new location to free up space on the /var partition. This is particularly useful when the /var partition is running low on space, causing MySQL to fail or lose data. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 1: Backup the MySQL Databases

First, it's crucial to create a backup of all MySQL databases to ensure data security. Execute the following command to dump all databases into a single file and compress it:

mysqldump --add-drop-table --all-databases | gzip > /home/alldatabases.sql.gz

Step 2: Stop the MySQL Server

Before moving the data directory, stop the MySQL server using the following command:

/etc/init.d/mysql stop

Step 3: Move the Data Directory

Navigate to the current MySQL data directory (/var/lib) and move it to the new location (/home/mysql) using the following commands:

cd /var/lib mv mysql /home/mysql

Step 4: Create Symbolic Link

Create a symbolic link from the original data directory location to the new location to ensure compatibility with MySQL configurations:

ln -s /home/mysql mysql

Step 5: Set Ownership

Ensure that the MySQL user owns the new data directory by executing the following command:

chown -R mysql:mysql /home/mysql

Step 6: Start MySQL Server

Start the MySQL server using the following command:

/etc/init.d/mysql start

Step 7: Verify MySQL Status

Check the status of the MySQL server to ensure it's running without any issues:

ps aux | grep mysql

Conclusion

By following these steps, you've successfully moved the MySQL data directory from the /var partition to a new location (/home/mysql), thereby freeing up space on the /var partition. This ensures smooth operation of MySQL and prevents data loss or service failures due to insufficient disk space. Always remember to back up your databases before making significant changes to ensure data integrity. If you encounter any issues, feel free to seek assistance from a qualified administrator.

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