How to install MariaDB on Windows

MariaDB is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). It is commonly used for managing databases across various platforms. In this article, you will learn how to install MariaDB Server on a Windows system. The process includes downloading the installer, setting up the database, and configuring security.

Installing MariaDB on Windows is straightforward. You can download the installer from the official website and follow a step-by-step process to configure the database. The installation process also allows you to set up the MariaDB service and enable it to run automatically at startup.

This guide will walk through the installation process, from downloading the installer to verifying the setup. You will also configure user authentication and perform basic security measures to secure your database.

1. Download the MariaDB installer from the official website.

   Go to the official MariaDB website at https://mariadb.org and download the latest version of the MariaDB Windows Installer.

2. Run the downloaded installer.

   Double-click the installer file to launch the installation wizard.

3. Select the components to install.

   Choose the required components, including the MariaDB Server. Optional tools and documentation can be selected based on your preferences.

4. Accept the license agreement.

   Read and accept the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL) to proceed.

5. Choose the installation directory.

   The default installation directory is `C:\Program Files\MariaDB`. You can change the directory if needed.

6. Set the root password.

   Set a secure password for the root user. This is required for database security.

7. Configure the MariaDB service.

   The installer will automatically configure MariaDB Server as a Windows service. It will start automatically when Windows starts.

8. Choose the port for MariaDB.

   By default, MariaDB uses port 3306. You can modify this setting if required.

9. Enable networking.

   Ensure networking is enabled to allow remote access to the database. This is useful for connecting to the database from other systems.

10. Complete the installation.

    Click Install to begin the installation process. Once completed, click Finish to exit the installer.

11. Open the Command Prompt.
12. Verify the installation.

    $ mariadb --version
    mariadb 10.5.9-MariaDB-1:10.5.9+maria~focal mariadb.org binary distribution

    This command will show the installed MariaDB version.

13. Connect to the MariaDB server.

    $ mariadb -u root -p
    Enter password: 
    Welcome to the MariaDB monitor.  Commands end with ; or \g.
    Your MariaDB connection id is 10
    Server version: 10.5.9-MariaDB-1:10.5.9+maria~focal mariadb.org binary distribution
    
    Type 'help;' or '\h' for help. Type '\c' to clear the current input statement.

    Enter the root password to access the MariaDB shell.

14. Test the connection.

    After logging in, you can execute SQL commands within the MariaDB shell to manage databases and users.