MySQL and MariaDB instances on the same server

Question

Is there any way to install correctly MariaDB and update MySQL 5.5 to any superior version,without altering my production database?

I'm told MariaDB could be installed on the same server but I need to change its port.

So what are the step by step instructions to make it work?

Answer 1

Fortunately the people at MariaDB have provided a nice step by step installation which should work. I've done this in the past, so if you have any problems. Drop a comment with the error, I'll try to help.

Guide can be found here.

I would recommend testing this first before doing this on a production system, as there are small details that can be missed.

With regards to upgrading MySQL, assuming you're using a standard Linux dist using the commands:

sudo apt-get upgrade

sudo apt-get install

Should appropriately upgrade MySQL binaries.

Although major version updates should be done per recommendation of the application.