Automatic MySQL 5.5 to 5.7 Update

In continuing with the Up Next initiative, we are planning to automatically update a selection of servers that are running cPanel & WHM Version 78 and using MySQL 5.5 to MySQL 5.7. This update is planned in the first quarter of 2020.

Why are some servers automatically upgrading to MySQL 5.7?

Those servers running cPanel & WHM Version 78 cannot upgrade beyond this version if they currently have MySQL 5.5 installed. MySQL 5.5 moved into “End of Life” status on December 3rd, 2018. cPanel will no longer provide support for systems running MySQL 5.5 after the automatic update. Those servers that do not upgrade to MySQL 5.6 or newer are at risk of not receiving essential patches to security vulnerabilities and running into compatibility issues with other software components. These servers will also miss out on added features and security updates in the newer supported cPanel & WHM versions. 

We are updating selected servers from MySQL 5.5 to 5.7, because version 5.6 will reach EOL in October 2020 and version 5.7 offers significant performance enhancements as well as active support. If you would like to use MySQL 5.6 instead, you can upgrade your servers ahead of this automatic update. System Administrators can choose to update to 5.6 ahead of this automatic update instead; however, they should be advised of the impending EOL status change.

How do I know if I’m affected?

Servers running cPanel & WHM Version 78 and MySQL 5.5 locally that do not have any existing databases may be automatically updated. We are currently evaluating the expansion of this auto-update to include servers having databases; however, that process has not been finalized. To stay up-to-date on updates such as these, we recommend signing up for our Product Update mailing list.

What are the potential issues?

Note: we strongly recommend updating MySQL as soon as possible, and not waiting for the automatic update. Taking early action can help prevent problems from arising, such as incompatibility or corruption of the installation.

As with any software upgrade, there are potential cases where your MySQL installation itself can become corrupted after the automatic update has completed. Please report any issues that you may experience.

Can I do this myself?

We encourage server owners to undertake the update process themselves in advance of the automatic update. You can update your MySQL installation by following the steps on our Documentation website.

If you require assistance with any issues as a result of this update, you can find a list of SafeAdmin certified system administrators here. 

What else should I know?

If you have any questions or want to discuss this upgrade process further, please reach out to us directly via our official Slack and Discord channels, our official subreddit, or the cPanel Forums. Make sure you keep tabs on the ongoing Up Next process!