# Migrating to MariaDB from MySQL

MariaDB Server is designed to be a high-performance, drop-in replacement for MySQL. Whether you are moving from legacy versions (5.5, 5.6, 5.7) or modern releases (8.0, 8.4 LTS), this section provides the tools and workflows needed for a successful transition.

## Evaluate Compatibility

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{% content-ref url="moving-from-mysql/mysql-to-mariadb-compatibility-matrix" %}
[mysql-to-mariadb-compatibility-matrix](https://mariadb.com/docs/server/server-management/install-and-upgrade-mariadb/migrating-to-mariadb/moving-from-mysql/mysql-to-mariadb-compatibility-matrix)
{% endcontent-ref %}
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Before moving data, understand the technical differences between your current MySQL version and your target MariaDB version. Our Compatibility Matrix covers changes in authentication, SQL syntax, and system variables. It's a detailed reference for DBAs and developers.
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## Choose Your Migration Path

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{% content-ref url="moving-from-mysql/mysql-to-mariadb-migration-the-master-guide" %}
[mysql-to-mariadb-migration-the-master-guide](https://mariadb.com/docs/server/server-management/install-and-upgrade-mariadb/migrating-to-mariadb/moving-from-mysql/mysql-to-mariadb-migration-the-master-guide)
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The best method for migration depends on your downtime requirements and server architecture. We have consolidated these workflows into a single authoritative guide.

* [MySQL to MariaDB Migration: The Master Guide](https://mariadb.com/docs/server/server-management/install-and-upgrade-mariadb/migrating-to-mariadb/moving-from-mysql/mysql-to-mariadb-migration-the-master-guide) — Step-by-step instructions for:
  * In-Place Upgrades: Fast, same-server binary swaps.
  * Logical Migrations: Safe, cross-server dump and restore.
  * Cloud & RDS Migrations: Specialized paths for managed environments.
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## Specialized Migration Scenarios

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{% content-ref url="moving-from-mysql/migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-using-replication" %}
[migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-using-replication](https://mariadb.com/docs/server/server-management/install-and-upgrade-mariadb/migrating-to-mariadb/moving-from-mysql/migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-using-replication)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="moving-from-mysql/migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-node-by-node-in-place" %}
[migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-node-by-node-in-place](https://mariadb.com/docs/server/server-management/install-and-upgrade-mariadb/migrating-to-mariadb/moving-from-mysql/migration-from-mysql-to-mariadb-cluster-node-by-node-in-place)
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Guides for migrating MySQL Galera Cluster to MariaDB Galera Cluster.
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