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How to Move MySQL Database on Windows

Mark Harwood
3 min readDec 27, 2024

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Recently, I’ve had to move MySQL database on Windows to another drive. This was the straight forward process I thought it would be, especially since there differences between MySQL versions.

YouTube Video

I wanted to do what I think I do best, and create a quick and easy to follow guide to show anyone how they can move MySQL to another drive or directory.

Before we start, you can also read this on my website!

Introduction

When you install MySQL onto Windows, the database is installed into C:\ProgramData\MySQL\MySQL Server 8.0\Data. This goes against best practice however, as it’s recommended to have only the Windows operating system and essential software on the C drive.

All other applications and data should be stored on additional drives or network shares.

This also helps the C drive maintain a sensible size which greatly helps with any recovery efforts should the system experience issues. Having to run sfc on a 60GB C drive compared to a bloated 2TB C drive makes all the difference. The difference usually being if you pull your hair out or not…

Move MySQL Database on Windows

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Mark Harwood
Mark Harwood

Written by Mark Harwood

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