If you’ve recently upgraded your MySQL database or tried connecting to it using an older application, you might have come across the error: plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is not loaded. This error can be a roadblock for developers and database administrators, especially when working with legacy systems. In this guide, we’ll dive into what this error means, why it happens, and how you can fix it to get your database back on track.
What Does “Plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is Not Loaded” Mean?
The error message plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is not loaded indicates that MySQL is unable to use the mysql_native_password authentication plugin. This plugin was the default method for authenticating users in older versions of MySQL (prior to MySQL 8.0). However, in newer versions, MySQL has shifted to more secure authentication methods like caching_sha2_password.
When your application or client tries to connect to the database using the older mysql_native_password plugin, but the server doesn’t have it enabled, this error occurs. It’s essentially a compatibility issue between the client and the server.
Why Does This Happen?
The primary reason for this error is the evolution of MySQL’s security features. Starting with MySQL 8.0, the default authentication plugin was changed to caching_sha2_password enhance security. While this is a positive change, it can cause problems for older applications or clients that still rely on the mysql_native_password plugin.
Here are some common scenarios where this error might occur:
- Upgrading MySQL: If you’ve upgraded your MySQL server to version 8.0 or later, the default authentication plugin changes, which can break compatibility with older clients.
- Legacy Applications: Older applications or scripts that were designed to work with MySQL 5.x might not support the newer authentication methods.
- Plugin Not Enabled: The
mysql_native_passwordplugin might not be loaded or enabled on your MySQL server, causing the error.
How to Fix the Error
Fixing the plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is not loaded error involves either re-enabling the legacy plugin or updating your application to support the newer authentication methods. Below are the steps to resolve the issue:
Step 1: Check the Current Authentication Plugin
First, you need to verify which authentication plugin is being used for the user account. Run the following SQL query in your MySQL server:
SELECT user, plugin FROM mysql.user;
This will show you a list of users and their respective authentication plugins. If the plugin for your user is set to caching_sha2_password or something other than mysql_native_password, you’ll need to change it.
Step 2: Switch to the mysql_native_password Plugin
If the user account is not using the mysql_native_password plugin, you can switch it back by running the following command:
ALTER USER 'your_username'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED WITH mysql_native_password BY 'your_password';
Replace your_username and your_password with the appropriate values. This command changes the authentication method for the specified user to mysql_native_password.
Step 3: Ensure the Plugin is Loaded
If the plugin is not loaded on your MySQL server, you’ll need to enable it. To check if the plugin is loaded, run:
SHOW PLUGINS;
If mysql_native_password is not listed, you’ll need to modify your MySQL configuration file (my.cnf or my.ini) and add the following line under the [mysqld] section:
[mysqld] default_authentication_plugin=mysql_native_password
After making this change, restart your MySQL server to apply the new configuration.
Step 4: Update Your Application or Client
If switching back to the mysql_native_password plugin isn’t an option, consider updating your application or client to support the newer caching_sha2_password plugin. Most modern MySQL clients and libraries (e.g., MySQL Connector/Python, PHP’s mysqli extension) support this plugin. Updating your software can help you avoid compatibility issues and improve security.
Step 5: Test the Connection
Once you’ve made the necessary changes, test the connection to ensure the error is resolved. If the plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is not loaded, the error no longer appears, your changes were successful.
Preventing Future Issues
To avoid encountering this error in the future:
- Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure that your MySQL server, clients, and applications are up to date to maintain compatibility with the latest authentication methods.
- Use Secure Authentication Plugins: Whenever possible, use the
caching_sha2_passwordplugin for better security. - Document Changes: Keep a record of any changes made to your MySQL configuration to simplify troubleshooting in the future.
Final Thoughts
The plugin ‘mysql_native_password’ is not loaded error is a common issue when working with MySQL, especially after upgrading to newer versions. By understanding the root cause and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can resolve the error and ensure smooth authentication for your applications. Whether you choose to switch back to the mysql_native_password plugin or update your software to support newer methods, the key is to balance compatibility and security.
If you continue to face issues, consider consulting the official MySQL documentation or reaching out to the Alessio Ligabue. Happy troubleshooting!
