Cloudways now offers MySQL 8.4 as a database option for your applications, in addition to MariaDB, which was previously available by default.
This update gives customers more flexibility in choosing a database engine that best fits their application requirements, compatibility needs, and long-term support expectations.
MySQL is one of the most widely used open-source relational database management systems in the world.
With the introduction of MySQL 8.4, Cloudways customers can benefit from improved performance, enhanced security, modern SQL features, and long-term stability for production workloads.
Table of Contents:
What Is MySQL 8.4?
MySQL 8.4 is a Long-Term Support (LTS) release of the MySQL database. LTS versions are designed for stability and long-term use, making them suitable for production environments where reliability and predictable updates are important.
MySQL 8.4 includes:
Improved query performance and optimization
Better handling of large datasets
Stronger security defaults
Modern SQL features and functions
Long-term maintenance and security updates
For Cloudways customers, this means a more robust and future-ready database option for hosting websites, web applications, and business-critical systems.
Why Cloudways Introduced MySQL 8.4?
MariaDB has been the default database option on Cloudways for many years and continues to be fully supported.
However, some applications and frameworks are developed and tested specifically against MySQL and may require full MySQL compatibility.
By introducing MySQL 8.4, Cloudways aims to:
Support applications that require native MySQL features
Provide better compatibility with modern frameworks and tools
Offer customers more choice and flexibility
Align with long-term database support and stability goals
This allows customers to select the database engine that best matches their application needs without changing their hosting workflow.
MySQL vs MariaDB: Key Differences
Although MySQL and MariaDB share a common origin, they have evolved differently over time.
Following are some key differences between both Databases:
Feature Differences:
Feature | MySQL 8.4 | MariaDB |
Origin | Developed and maintained by Oracle | Community-driven fork of MySQL |
Release Type | Long-Term Support (LTS) | Regular community releases |
Compatibility | Best for applications requiring native MySQL behavior | Compatible with many MySQL apps, but not all |
Performance | Optimized for modern workloads and large datasets | Strong performance with additional storage engines |
Security | Enhanced default security and authentication methods | Good security with community-driven enhancements |
SQL Features | Supports modern SQL standards and functions | Includes some unique SQL extensions |
Ecosystem Support | Widely supported by enterprise tools and vendors | Popular in open-source environments |
Technical Differences:
Category | MariaDB | MySQL |
Error / Warning Logging | log_warnings = 1 | log_error_verbosity = 2 |
Default Auth Plugin | mysql_native_password | caching_sha2_password |
SQL Mode Defaults | SQL mode is less stricter | SQL mode is more stricter |
JSON Storage | treats JSON as LONGTEXT | treats JSON as a native data type |
Memory Behavior | Less Memory Efficient | More Memory Efficient |
Redo Log Setting | innodb_log_file_size | innodb_redo_log_capacity |
Which Database Should You Choose?
Choosing between MySQL 8.4 and MariaDB depends on your application requirements.
You may prefer MySQL 8.4 if:
Your application explicitly requires MySQL
You use third-party tools or plugins tested only with MySQL
You want long-term support with predictable updates
You may prefer MariaDB if:
Your application is already running smoothly on MariaDB
You rely on MariaDB-specific features or extensions
You prefer a community-driven database frequent releases
Both options are fully managed on Cloudways, meaning Cloudways handles installation, updates, and basic maintenance for you.
Important Limitation: Switching Between MySQL and MariaDB
It is important to understand that Cloudways does not allow switching the database engine for an existing application.
If your application was originally created using MariaDB, you cannot change it to MySQL later. You cannot also change it whilst recovering your deleted server as shown below.
Similarly, if your application is created with MySQL, you cannot switch it to MariaDB after deployment.
This limitation exists because MySQL and MariaDB have differences in internal database structure, features, and compatibility.
Changing the database engine after an application is live may cause data inconsistencies, application errors, or unexpected behavior.
What Does This Mean for You?
The database type is locked at the time of application creation
Existing applications must continue using their original database
To use a different database engine, you must deploy a new application
Data migration, if needed, must be handled separately and carefully
For this reason, Cloudways strongly recommends choosing the database engine before launching a new application, especially for production websites.
Where and How MySQL 8.4 Can Be Used on Cloudways
MySQL 8.4 is available only during application creation. Below is a brief explanation of where you can select MySQL 8.4.
Adding an Application on a New Server
When launching a new server on Cloudways, you can choose MySQL 8.4 as the database engine while adding a new application.
In this scenario:
A brand-new server is created
The application is deployed fresh
MySQL 8.4 is installed and configured from the start
No database switching or migration is required
This option is ideal if:
You are starting a new project
You want MySQL from day one
You prefer a clean setup with no legacy dependencies
Adding an Application on an Existing Server
If you already have a Cloudways server, you can still use MySQL 8.4, but only when adding a new application to that server.
Key points to note:
MySQL 8.4 can be selected only for new applications
Existing applications on the same server remain unchanged
Applications using MariaDB and MySQL can co-exist on the same server
Each application continues using its originally selected database
This allows flexibility without impacting live applications.
Summary
With the introduction of MySQL 8.4, Cloudways gives customers more flexibility and control over their database environment.
Whether you choose MySQL 8.4 for its long-term support and compatibility or continue using MariaDB for its proven reliability, Cloudways ensures a fully managed and optimized database experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MySQL 8.4 replacing MariaDB on Cloudways?
No. MariaDB is not being removed or replaced. Cloudways continues to support MariaDB alongside MySQL 8.4. Customers can choose the database that best suits their needs.
Will my existing applications automatically move to MySQL 8.4?
No. Existing applications remain on their current database engine unless you manually choose to migrate or deploy a new application using MySQL 8.4.
Is MySQL 8.4 better than MariaDB?
Neither database is universally better. MySQL 8.4 focuses on long-term stability and compatibility, while MariaDB offers flexibility and community-driven innovation. The right choice depends on your application requirements.
Do I need technical expertise to use MySQL 8.4 on Cloudways?
No. Cloudways manages the database setup and maintenance. You can use MySQL 8.4 without deep database knowledge.
Can I migrate from MariaDB to MySQL 8.4?
Yes, migration is possible, but it requires careful planning and testing to ensure compatibility. Cloudways recommends validating your application in a staging environment before switching databases.
Is MySQL 8.4 suitable for production websites?
Yes. MySQL 8.4 is a Long-Term Support release and is designed for production use, offering stability, security updates, and predictable maintenance.
That’s it! We hope this article was helpful.
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