How To Import and Export Databases in MySQL or MariaDB

Introduction

MySQL and MariaDB are popular relational database management systems used in web development. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps to import and export databases in MySQL or MariaDB using command-line tools.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, ensure you have:

1. A MySQL or MariaDB server installed
2. The MySQL or MariaDB command-line client installed on your system

Exporting a Database

1. Using mysqldump: Use the following command to export a database:

mysqldump -u username -p database_name > filename.sql

Replace username with your MySQL or MariaDB username, database_name with the name of the database you want to export, and filename.sql with the desired name for the exported SQL file.

Importing a Database

1. Using mysql: Use the following command to import a database:

mysql -u username -p database_name < filename.sql

Replace username with your MySQL or MariaDB username, database_name with the name of the database you want to import into, and filename.sql with the path to the SQL file you want to import.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to import and export databases in MySQL or MariaDB using command-line tools. This process is useful for backing up and restoring databases, migrating data between servers, and more.