How to Install MySQL Workbench on Ubuntu Linux

How to install MySQL Workbench from Snap

Snap packages offer an alternative method for installing 💿 MySQL Workbench on Ubuntu. Open your terminal and type `sudo snap install mysql-workbench-community`. This command installs the community version of MySQL Workbench, even if that release isn’t part of standard Ubuntu software lists.

Snap package management provides access to the community build. Run the commands below to install Snap’s MySQL Workbench community version.

sudo snap install mysql-workbench-community

Once Workbench is installed, launch it from the command line by typing `mysql-workbench-community` or by clicking the MySQL Workbench icon in Activities - › Overview - › MySQL Workbench

To connect to a database server, head to Database ==> Connect to Database. New connections require clicking the circled plus sign ⊕ next to “MySQL Connections.”

After installation completes, configure a new connection by entering database server login credentials. A successful connection test confirms the setup works correctly.

MySQL and MariaDB using root passwords

Troubleshoot root login failures on Ubuntu MySQL or MariaDB instances by checking a security setting called `auth_socket`.

The `auth_socket` plugin authenticates users connecting from the local host via the Unix socket file, which acts as a secure channel. This behavior prevents root authentication through traditional password prompts.

Disabling the `auth_socket` plugin requires running specific SQL commands. Modifying this setting enforces root password authentication instead of passwordless local access.

MySQL:

ALTER USER 'root'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED WITH mysql_native_password BY 'type_strong_password_here';

MariaDB:

UPDATE mysql.user SET plugin = 'mysql_native_password' WHERE User='root';

Database administrators should now achieve successful root login using password authentication.

Conclusion:

• MySQL Workbench is a powerful tool for managing MySQL and MariaDB databases.
• The installation process on Ubuntu is simple and can be done through Snap.
• Users can create and manage databases, users, and run SQL queries efficiently.
• Auth_socket authentication can be modified to use password authentication for root users.
• Ubuntu provides an accessible platform for beginners to start learning Linux and database management.
• Overall, MySQL Workbench enhances productivity and simplifies database interactions for both new and experienced users.