How can I replace MySQL with MariaDB on production server?

How can I replace MySQL with MariaDB on production server?

@jimdunn :) It's possible but challenging, lots of work, and risky depending on your configuration. If you consider yourself an advanced user there are related comments at:

• https://www.virtualmin.com/comment/740345#comment-740345
• https://www.virtualmin.com/comment/740349#comment-740349

There is a much easier, more stable, and safer option. Find my other comment #3 below.

How can I replace MySQL with MariaDB on production server?

@jimdunn :) There is a much easier, more stable, and safer option you might be interested in. Have you consider migrating your data from Debian 7.6 Virtualmin to a Debian 9.x Virtualmin? You would automatically get MariaDB. Easy.

Steps

1. Install a fresh new Debian 9 and install Virtualmin. Virtualmin will automatically be configure for MariaDB. Because Debian 9 Stretch comes with MariaDB by default.
2. Using your Virtualmin on Debian 7, export your data
3. Using your Virtualmin on Debian 9, import your data
4. Done. Enjoy :)

For those note familiar with MariaDB, some of the benefits you get are listed at https://www.virtualmin.com/comment/797061#comment-797061