MySQL 8.0.16 New Upgrade Method: Replacing mysql_upgrade with the --upgrade Option

Why the Upgrade Method Changed

Official reasons:

Faster upgrade speed

Simpler process

Improved safety

Fewer steps, easier automation

No MySQL restart required

Plug‑and‑play

Comparison of Old and New Upgrade Processes

Before MySQL 8.0.16:

1. Stop MySQL and replace the binary. 2. Start MySQL to upgrade the Data Dictionary (DD) tables. 3. Run mysql_upgrade to update system and user tables. 4. Load new help tables. 5. Restart MySQL.

From MySQL 8.0.16 onward:

1. Stop MySQL and replace the binary. 2. Start MySQL, which now upgrades the DD tables, system tables, user tables, and help tables in a single step.

The new process shortens upgrade time and reduces the number of manual steps.

New Upgrade Options in MySQL 8.0.16

MySQL now adds a --upgrade option to mysqld . Valid values are:

NONE : Do not attempt any upgrade.

AUTO : Default; performs both Data Dictionary and server upgrades.

MINIMAL : Only upgrades the Data Dictionary.

FORCE : Forces upgrade, similar to the old mysql_upgrade --force .

Example command:

/usr/local/mysql/bin/mysqld --upgrade=NONE

Overall Upgrade Procedure

The new method consists of two main steps:

Upgrade the Data Dictionary (DD).

Server upgrade: update MySQL system tables, user tables, sys tables, and help tables.

Potential Issues

1. Data Dictionary upgrade is an atomic operation; if it fails, you can roll back using the directory.

2. System and user table upgrades can be recovered from backups.

Personal recommendations for upgrading: Use the latest MySQL 8.0 series; each version adds features and bug fixes, and regular minor upgrades improve stability. Read the release notes of new versions. Always back up before upgrading so you can roll back if needed.

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