Managing data in MySQL and MariaDB often involves removing all records from a table. This is common when clearing test data or preparing a table for new data. There are multiple ways to do this, depending on the requirement, but it's essential to understand the differences between each method.

In both MySQL and MariaDB, you can use the DELETE command to remove all rows from a table. However, this operation can be slow for large datasets as it logs each deletion. If speed and efficiency are needed, the TRUNCATE command provides a faster alternative by removing all records without logging individual row deletions. It also resets the auto-increment value, making it an ideal choice when you need a clean slate.

Before executing these operations, always ensure proper backups. Deleting or truncating data is irreversible unless you restore it from a backup. This is crucial for preventing accidental data loss. After running either of these commands, the table structure remains intact, allowing the table to be repurposed or kept empty as needed.

Steps to delete all rows or clear tables in MySQL or MariaDB:

  1. Log in to the MySQL or MariaDB server using the command line.
    $ mysql -u username -p
    Enter password: *****

    Replace username with your MySQL or MariaDB username.

  2. Select the database that contains the target table.
    mysql> USE database_name;

    Replace database_name with the name of the database where your table is located.

  3. Use the TRUNCATE command to remove all data from the table and reset the auto-increment value.
    mysql> TRUNCATE TABLE table_name;
    Query OK, 0 rows affected (0.05 sec)

    Be cautious with the TRUNCATE command as it permanently removes all records and resets the auto-increment value.

  4. Optionally, use the DELETE command to remove all rows from the table without resetting the auto-increment value.
    mysql> DELETE FROM table_name;
    Query OK, 100 rows affected (0.20 sec)

    The DELETE command logs each row deletion and may take longer for larger tables.

  5. Verify that the table is empty by querying the table.
    mysql> SELECT * FROM table_name;
    Empty set (0.00 sec)
  6. Exit the MySQL or MariaDB server.
    mysql> EXIT;
    Bye
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