- Change a Password for MySQL on Linux via Command Line
- Create a MySQL Database on Linux via Command Line
- Select a MySQL Database on Linux via Command Line
- 3 Tips For Working With a MySQL Database!
- How to Back Up And Restore MySQL Databases From The Command Line
Next in Series:
MySQL via Command Line 102: Basic User Interaction
Preflight Check
- These instructions are intended for setting the password for all MySQL users named root on Linux via the command line. However, they can also be followed to change the password for any MySQL user.
- I’ll be working from a Liquid Web Core Managed CentOS 6.5 server, and I’ll be logged in as root.

mysql -u root -p
In this case, I’ve specified the user root with the -u flag and then used the -p flag so MySQL prompts for a password. Enter your current password to complete the login.
Now switch to the appropriate MySQL database with the following command:
use mysql;
Next, we’ll update the password for all MySQL users with the name root. Be sure to replace your_new_password with the actual new password:
update user set password=PASSWORD('your_new_password') where User='root';
Note: You can change the password for any user with the above command. Simply specify that user’s username in place of root.
Finally, reload the privileges:
flush privileges;
Now you’re all set to exit MySQL!
quit