How to Install and Secure MySQL/MariaDB Database

Introduction

MySQL and MariaDB are popular relational database management systems. This guide covers installation and security configuration.

Step 1: Install MariaDB

Install MariaDB server from the default repository.

sudo apt update
sudo apt install mariadb-server

Step 2: Start MariaDB Service

Enable and start the MariaDB service.

sudo systemctl start mariadb
sudo systemctl enable mariadb

Step 3: Run Security Script

Run the security script to improve database security.

sudo mysql_secure_installation

Step 4: Create Database and User

Create a new database and user for your application.

sudo mysql
CREATE DATABASE myapp;
CREATE USER 'myappuser'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'password';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON myapp.* TO 'myappuser'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
EXIT;

Step 5: Configure Remote Access

If needed, configure MariaDB to allow remote connections.

sudo nano /etc/mysql/mariadb.conf.d/50-server.cnf
# Comment out: bind-address = 127.0.0.1
sudo systemctl restart mariadb

Conclusion

MariaDB is now installed and secured. Remember to use strong passwords and limit database user privileges.