How to Get your MySQL Version

How to get the MySQL Version you are running

Whether you’re a seasoned MySQL administrator or just getting started with the database management system, knowing how to check the version you’re running is an essential skill. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different ways to find the MySQL version both from within the MySQL prompt and outside of it.

Finding the MySQL Version Inside the Prompt

To get the MySQL version while inside the MySQL prompt, you can use the following command:

SELECT VERSION();

This will return the full version information, including the version number, release date, and other details.

Alternatively, you can use the @@version system variable:

SELECT @@version;

This will give you a shorter version string, which may be more suitable if you only need the version number.

Finding the MySQL Version Outside the Prompt

If you need to check the MySQL version without actually entering the MySQL prompt, you can use the command-line client tool mysql with the --version or -V option:

mysql --version

or

mysql -V

This will display the MySQL version information directly in your terminal or command prompt.

Other Ways to Find the MySQL Version

In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are a few other ways to determine the MySQL version you’re running:

1. Check the Server Configuration File: The MySQL server configuration file (my.cnf on Unix-like systems, my.ini on Windows) may contain the version information, usually in the [mysqld] section.

2. Use a Database Management Tool: Many third-party tools, such as phpMyAdmin or MySQL Workbench, provide an easy way to view the MySQL version information within their interfaces.

3. Check the Package Information: If you installed MySQL using a package manager (e.g., yum, apt, brew), you can usually find the version information by querying the package details.

Knowing how to quickly check the MySQL version is important for various tasks, from troubleshooting issues to ensuring your applications are compatible with the right version of the database. By following the methods outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to effortlessly determine the MySQL version you’re working with.