The World of MySQL & MariaDB

MySQL 8.0 Features: Faster Performance & Stronger Security

Advanced Topics
目次

1. Overview of MySQL 8.0

1.1 What is MySQL?

MySQL is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that is widely used in web applications and systems. In particular, as part of the LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP/Python/Perl) stack, it is adopted by many companies and developers.

1.2 Release background and goals of MySQL 8.0

MySQL 8.0 is a major version released in 2018 that introduced significant feature enhancements and improvements over the previous MySQL 5.7. As data volumes and user counts grew, there was a demand for greater reliability and performance. MySQL 8.0 aims to provide high-speed processing, flexibility, and strengthened security needed for enterprise-scale data management.

2. New Features and Improvements in MySQL 8.0

2.1 Enhanced Support for JSON Data Type

In MySQL 8.0, support for the JSON data type has been strengthened, enabling manipulation and querying of complex JSON data. The addition of new JSON functions streamlines filtering and aggregation using JSON data, making dynamic data management even easier.

2.2 Introduction of Window Functions

The introduction of window functions makes complex data analysis possible. As a result, tasks such as ranking and calculating moving averages, which previously required intricate queries, can now be expressed concisely, improving the efficiency of data analysis.

2.3 Adoption of Transactional Data Dictionary

By adopting a transactional data dictionary, metadata is stored on disk, making database management more robust. This ensures that schema information and configuration data are persistently retained, significantly enhancing system stability.

2.4 Change of Default Character Set to utf8mb4

Changing the default character set to utf8mb4 allows a wide range of characters, including emojis and non‑Latin scripts, to be used. This has increased adoption in applications that require multilingual support and especially in social networking apps where emoji usage is common.

2.5 Other Major New Features

MySQL 8.0 also introduces support for common table expressions (CTEs), improved binary log performance, and tablespace encryption. These enhancements not only streamline data management but also strengthen security, making it an ideal platform for enterprise deployment.

3. MySQL 8.0 Performance Improvements

3.1 Performance Improvements Compared to MySQL 5.7

In MySQL 8.0, performance is roughly twice that of MySQL 5.7. In particular, the processing speed for executing complex queries has been dramatically improved, making it suitable for enterprise‑level large‑scale data management.

3.2 Improvements in Query Optimization

Query optimization has advanced, allowing even complex queries to efficiently use indexes, which speeds up search and aggregation processing. Improvements to the query planner automatically select the optimal index for specific search conditions, enabling efficient data manipulation even in environments with large data volumes.

3.3 Strengthening the InnoDB Storage Engine

The InnoDB storage engine has been enhanced, and improvements to its internal locking mechanisms boost concurrent processing performance. In addition, InnoDB’s full‑text search performance has also been improved, further accelerating data search operations.

4. MySQL 8.0 Security Features

4.1 Strengthening Privilege Management with SQL Roles

With the introduction of SQL roles, user privilege management has become more flexible. Multiple privileges can be grouped into a single role and assigned to users, simplifying privilege management within organizations.

4.2 Improvements to Authentication Plugins

Authentication plugins have been enhanced, enabling advanced methods such as LDAP authentication and multi-factor authentication (MFA). As security is a priority in corporate database management, the strengthened authentication plugins provide a significant benefit.

4.3 Addition of Data Encryption Features

Table-level encryption is now possible, helping reduce the risk of data leaks. In particular, for MySQL use in the financial and healthcare sectors, where personal data protection is required, the encryption feature plays a crucial role.

5. MySQL 8.0 Installation and Upgrade Procedure

5.1 New Installation Procedure

  • Windows: You can download the MySQL installer and install it using the GUI. The installer includes major tools such as MySQL Server, Workbench, MySQL Shell, and allows you to configure everything in one go.
  • Linux (e.g., Ubuntu): Install using the following commands.
  sudo apt update
  sudo apt install mysql-server
  • macOS: You can install using Homebrew with the following commands.
  brew update
  brew install mysql
After installation, start MySQL and perform the initial setup for the root user. Security settings (such as setting the root password and restricting remote access) are also important.

5.2 How to Upgrade from MySQL 5.7

  • Backup: Before upgrading, obtain a full backup of the database using tools like mysqldump, and it is recommended to verify in a test environment.
  • Upgrade Procedure: The upgrade steps on Linux are as follows.
  sudo apt update
  sudo apt install mysql-server-8.0
  sudo mysql_upgrade
After upgrading, verify operation in a test environment, and once confirmed that there are no issues, apply the changes to the production environment—this is best practice.

5.3 Considerations and Best Practices

After upgrading, check the application for compatibility issues. Additionally, perform query optimization and performance monitoring as needed to maximize the benefits of the upgrade.

6. MySQL 8.0 Use Cases

6.1 Using in Web Applications

MySQL 8.0 is widely used in web applications. In particular, the expanded JSON capabilities enable flexible data structures for dynamically managing user settings and profiles. For example, its use is growing in e‑commerce sites and social networking platforms.

6.2 Using in Mobile Applications

As a backend for mobile apps, MySQL 8.0 offers high performance and security. Applications that require push notifications and user synchronization benefit from MySQL’s low latency and JSON data handling. For instance, its use is advancing in fitness apps and messaging apps.

6.3 Cloud Deployment Cases

MySQL 8.0 is well suited for operation on major cloud services such as AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, and Microsoft Azure, providing high availability and scalability. In particular, its ease of implementing redundancy and automated backups makes it ideal for large‑scale enterprise database management. For example, it is widely used in building cloud‑based data warehouses and data lakes.

7. Outlook for MySQL 8.0

7.1 Upcoming Feature Additions and Improvements

MySQL 8.0 continues to receive regular updates after its release, with ongoing enhancements to security features and performance. In particular, integration with AI and machine learning is anticipated, and it is expected that more advanced data analysis within the database will become possible in the future.

7.2 Trends in the MySQL Community

MySQL is supported by an open-source community worldwide, and the introduction of MySQL 8.0 has spurred the development of new plugins and extensions. Many developers and companies are leveraging the new features, and MySQL’s reliability and flexibility are expected to improve further.

8. Summary

8.1 Overview of MySQL 8.0

MySQL 8.0 is a database platform ideal for enterprise-scale data management, offering improved performance and security as well as flexible data management features. It is especially expected to be leveraged in cloud environments and mobile applications.

8.2 Points to Consider When Evaluating Adoption

When adopting MySQL 8.0, consider whether system compatibility and performance improvements are expected, and it is recommended to verify operation in a test environment and obtain backups in advance.

8.3 Reference Links

  • You can check the official MySQL documentation for additional technical information and detailed installation procedures.