How to delete database on MySQL and MariaDB

Deleting a database in MySQL or MariaDB is an essential task for any database administrator. It is crucial to ensure that you have properly backed up any necessary data and that you understand the implications of this action, as deleting a database is irreversible. Additionally, it is important to revoke user permissions for the dropped database, ensuring that there are no lingering permissions or security risks associated with the deleted database.

MySQL and MariaDB are very similar in terms of their syntax and commands, which makes it easy to perform tasks like database deletion and revoking user permissions. To delete a database and revoke user permissions, you will need to have administrative access to the MySQL or MariaDB server and know the name of the database and the user(s) associated with it.

This guide provides a step-by-step process to delete a database and revoke user permissions in MySQL and MariaDB. Follow these steps carefully, and always remember to double-check your commands before executing them to avoid any unwanted consequences.

1. Log in to the MySQL or MariaDB server using a command line or terminal.

   mysql -u root -p

2. Identify the database you want to delete by listing all available databases.

   SHOW DATABASES;

3. Revoke all privileges for the user(s) associated with the database.

   REVOKE ALL PRIVILEGES ON database_name.* FROM 'username'@'localhost';

4. Confirm the user privileges have been revoked by checking their privileges.

   SHOW GRANTS FOR 'username'@'localhost';

5. Flush the privileges to ensure the changes take effect immediately.

   FLUSH PRIVILEGES;

6. Delete the database using the DROP DATABASE command.

   DROP DATABASE database_name;

7. Verify that the database has been deleted by listing all available databases.

   SHOW DATABASES;

8. Exit the MySQL or MariaDB server.

   EXIT;