4 Ways to Get Your MySQL Version

Understanding which version of MySQL you’re running is essential for managing your database environment. Whether you’re troubleshooting, performing upgrades, or checking for compatibility with certain features, knowing the exact MySQL version can save you time and ensure optimal performance. There are various methods to obtain this information, depending on whether you’re using the command line, MySQL admin tools, or even programming languages.

In this article, we’ll explore 4 different ways to check your MySQL version on Linux, Windows, and through programming languages like PHP.

1. Using the MySQL Command Line Interface (CLI)

One of the most common methods for checking the MySQL version is through the MySQL Command Line Interface (CLI). This method allows you to retrieve the version from inside the MySQL environment itself.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open your terminal or command prompt.
2. Login to MySQL using the following command:
   mysql -u root -p


   Replace root with your MySQL username. After executing the command, you’ll be prompted for your password.

3. Once logged in, execute the following SQL query:
   SELECT VERSION();


   This will return the MySQL version you’re running. For example:

   +--------------------+
| VERSION() |
+--------------------+
| 8.0.21 |
+--------------------+

4. Exit MySQL by typing:
   exit;


This method gives a precise version number directly from within the MySQL environment, making it ideal for administrators working on the server.

2. Using the mysqladmin Command

The mysqladmin utility is another tool that provides information about the MySQL server, including the version. This method allows you to check the version from the terminal without needing to log into MySQL.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open your terminal or command prompt.
2. Run the following command:
   mysqladmin -u root -p version


   You’ll need to input your MySQL password when prompted.

3. The output will display several details about your MySQL installation, including the version:
   mysqladmin Ver 9.1 Distrib 8.0.21, for Linux on x86_64
Server version 8.0.21
Protocol version 10
Connection Localhost via UNIX socket
Uptime: 2 hours 15 min 45 sec

4. Look for the line Server version, which will show your current MySQL version.

The mysqladmin command is useful for system administrators who prefer to get quick information without logging into the MySQL shell.

3. Checking the MySQL Version via status Command

Another simple way to retrieve the MySQL version from within the MySQL shell is by using the status command. This method also provides additional server information, such as uptime and the current database being used.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Login to MySQL using the command:
   mysql -u root -p

2. Once inside the MySQL shell, type the following command:
   status;

3. You will receive an output similar to this:
   --------------
mysql Ver 8.0.21 for Linux on x86_64 (MySQL Community Server - GPL)
Connection id: 5
Current database: test
Current user: root@localhost
Server version: 8.0.21
Protocol version: 10
Uptime: 1 hour 35 min 20 sec

4. Look for the line “Server version” for the MySQL version.

The status command not only provides the MySQL version but also displays information on server activity, making it a valuable tool for database administrators.

4. Using PHP to Check the MySQL Version

If you’re working in a web development environment and don’t have shell access, you can check the MySQL version using PHP. This is particularly useful for web developers who want to verify the MySQL version in a shared hosting environment.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create a PHP file on your web server with the following content:
   <?php
// Create a connection to MySQL
$conn = new mysqli('localhost', 'root', 'your_password');// Check connection
   if ($conn->connect_error) {
   die(“Connection failed: “ . $conn->connect_error);
   }

   // Get MySQL version
   echo “MySQL version: “ . $conn->server_info;

   // Close the connection
   $conn->close();
   ?>

2. Save the file as check_mysql_version.php and place it in your web server’s document root (for example, /var/www/html/).
3. Open your browser and navigate to the file:
   http://your-server-ip/check_mysql_version.php

4. You will see an output similar to this:
   MySQL version: 8.0.21


This method is ideal for developers who are managing MySQL through a web server and need to quickly verify the MySQL version via a PHP script.

Conclusion

Knowing your MySQL version is crucial for maintaining the health, security, and compatibility of your database system. Whether you’re an administrator managing multiple servers, or a developer working on a shared hosting environment, you have several options to retrieve the MySQL version.

Here’s a quick recap of the 4 ways to get your MySQL version:

1. Using the MySQL Command Line Interface (CLI) — Useful for administrators working directly on the server.
2. Using the mysqladmin Command — Provides a quick way to get version details without logging into MySQL.
3. Using the status Command — Returns version info along with other useful server status data.
4. Using PHP — Ideal for developers working in a web environment without terminal access.

By using one of these methods, you can easily determine your MySQL version and ensure your system is up-to-date and functioning correctly.