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Asked: 2024-09-24T22:19:56+05:30 In: ,

How can I find the initial root password for MySQL after installation on Ubuntu?

I just finished installing MySQL on my Ubuntu machine, and I’m running into a bit of a snag. I thought I had everything set up perfectly, but now I can’t seem to figure out how to find the initial root password. During the installation process, I’m pretty sure there was some prompt about creating a root password, but it didn’t stick in my mind (you know how it is when you’re trying to focus on a million things at once).

I’ve tried a couple of things that I found online, like checking the MySQL log files and searching for any hints in the installation scripts, but no luck so far. I even attempted to log in with just no password, thinking maybe it would default to that, but of course, that didn’t work out either. So, now I’m feeling a bit lost and frustrated.

I think I read somewhere that if you forget the root password, there might be a way to reset it — but then I got confused with all the technical jargon. Do I need to stop the MySQL service first? And what’s this about running it in safe mode? It all sounds a bit daunting, and I’m not sure I’m ready to dive into that yet.

Also, I don’t want to mess anything up in case there’s important data sitting there waiting for me. Can anyone walk me through what I should do? Is there a straightforward method to access the initial root password, or will I have to go down the password reset rabbit hole? Any tips or step-by-step instructions would be super appreciated. Seriously, I’m ready to pull my hair out here. If anyone’s been in a similar situation and can share their experience, I’d love to hear about it!

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    2 Answers


    1. To retrieve or reset the initial root password for MySQL on your Ubuntu machine, you have a couple of straightforward options, though these require a bit of command-line interaction. First, confirm that you are not currently logged into MySQL by trying to log in: mysql -u root -p. If you don’t remember the password, stop the MySQL service with the command sudo systemctl stop mysql. Once the service is stopped, you can restart MySQL in safe mode, which allows you to bypass the authentication checks. This can be done by running sudo mysqld_safe --skip-grant-tables &. Once MySQL is running in safe mode, you can log in without a password using mysql -u root.

      After logging in, you can reset the root password by executing the following commands. First, switch to the MySQL database: USE mysql;, then update the root user password with UPDATE user SET authentication_string=PASSWORD('new_password') WHERE User='root';. Make sure to replace new_password with your desired password. After completing these steps, flush the privileges to apply your changes using FLUSH PRIVILEGES;, and then exit MySQL with EXIT;. Finally, restart the MySQL service again using sudo systemctl start mysql, and you should be able to log in using your new password. Remember that keeping backups of your database is essential, especially when dealing with user credentials and configurations.




    2. MySQL Root Password Recovery Help

      Dealing with MySQL Root Password Issues

      Hey there! It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tough spot with your MySQL installation. Don’t stress too much—it’s not as daunting as it seems, and many of us have been in your shoes!

      Finding the Initial Root Password

      First off, there is no way to retrieve the original root password if you didn’t note it down during the installation. If you can’t remember it, don’t worry! You can reset it pretty easily by following a few steps.

      Resetting the Root Password

      1. Stop the MySQL Service: You need to stop MySQL before you can make changes. You can do that by running the following command in your terminal: 
        sudo systemctl stop mysql
      2. Start MySQL in Safe Mode: This allows you to bypass the password requirement. Run this command: 
        sudo mysqld_safe --skip-grant-tables &

        This will start MySQL in the background and allow you to access it without a password.

      3. Log in to MySQL: Now, you can log in by running: 
        mysql -u root

        Since you’re in safe mode, it shouldn’t ask for a password.

      4. Reset the Password: Once you’re inside, run the following commands to reset the root password: 
        FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
        ALTER USER 'root'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'new_password';

        Make sure to replace new_password with a password you want to use.

      5. Exit MySQL: Just type: 
        exit;
      6. Restart MySQL Service: Now, stop the safe mode and start MySQL normally: 
        sudo systemctl stop mysql
        sudo systemctl start mysql

      Testing the New Password

      Try logging in with your new password using this command:

      mysql -u root -p

      When prompted, enter the new password you set earlier.

      Final Thoughts

      And that’s it! You should now have access to your MySQL root account. Just take it step by step, and you’ll be back in control in no time. Always remember to keep your passwords noted down to avoid future headaches! Good luck!


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