How do I upgrade MySQL with the CloudLinux MySQL Governor tool?

Published On - March 22, 2025

Jonathan Dough Content

Upgrading MySQL is an essential task for maintaining the security, performance, and stability of your server. If you’re using CloudLinux, the MySQL Governor tool makes this process easier by providing a controlled way to manage and upgrade MySQL without disrupting your environment.

Why Upgrade MySQL?

There are several reasons why upgrading MySQL is beneficial:

  • Security Enhancements – New versions often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.
  • Performance Improvements – Upgrades introduce optimizations that enhance database speed and efficiency.
  • Compatibility and New Features – Latest MySQL releases support new features and compatibility with modern applications.

Prerequisites for Upgrading MySQL

Before initiating the upgrade, ensure you:

  • Take a full backup of your databases using mysqldump or a similar backup tool.
  • Verify compatibility with your applications.
  • Ensure your Linux system is running CloudLinux with the MySQL Governor installed.

Checking Your Current MySQL Version

To check your current MySQL version, run the following command:

mysql -V

This will display the currently installed MySQL version, helping you determine whether an upgrade is necessary.

Upgrading MySQL Using MySQL Governor

The MySQL Governor tool provided by CloudLinux allows you to easily manage and upgrade MySQL. Follow these steps to perform a smooth upgrade:

1. Check Available MySQL Versions

Run the following command to see a list of available MySQL versions:

cl-select mysql --list-versions

This will display a list of supported MySQL versions that you can upgrade to.

2. Select the MySQL Version for Upgrade

To set the version you want to upgrade to, use:

cl-select mysql --set-version=mysqlXX

Replace mysqlXX with the desired MySQL version, such as mysql57 for MySQL 5.7 or mysql80 for MySQL 8.0.

3. Upgrade MySQL Packages

After selecting the version, upgrade MySQL using the following command:

yum update

This will install the selected MySQL version and replace the old one.

Verifying the Upgrade

Once the update is complete, check the new MySQL version to confirm the upgrade:

mysql -V

If the correct version is displayed, the upgrade was successful.

Post-Upgrade Tasks

After the upgrade, perform these tasks to ensure stability:

  • Restart MySQL: Use systemctl restart mysql to restart the service.
  • Check Logs: Review /var/log/mysqld.log for potential errors.
  • Test Applications: Verify that your applications are functioning correctly with the new MySQL version.

Handling Potential Issues

If you encounter problems after upgrading MySQL, consider these troubleshooting steps:

  • Check Dependencies: Ensure all required dependencies are installed correctly.
  • Review Configuration: Compare your old and new MySQL configuration files to ensure no critical settings were changed.
  • Restore Backup: If necessary, restore your database backup and downgrade to the previous version.
Optimize the Database

Conclusion

Upgrading MySQL using CloudLinux MySQL Governor is a straightforward process that improves security, performance, and compatibility. By following the proper steps, you can ensure a smooth upgrade with minimal downtime. Always remember to backup your databases before proceeding with the update, and test thoroughly after upgrading to avoid any unexpected issues.