A common scenario occurs when there is a need to transfer a MySQL database from an old server to a new one.
Is it feasible to accomplish this task by simply copying the folder containing the database?
To clarify, the process involves creating an empty database with the identical name on the new server and then transferring the files, specifically .MYD files, from the old server into it.

In the end, it is preferable to use the planned and expected method of import and export.
If the database is of type MyISAM, you have the option to utilize this approach.
However, if the database type is not InnoDB, alternative methods can be explored.

Why go through unnecessary troubles? Phpmyadmin serves as an excellent tool for seamless import-export operations. And, of course, there is always the reliable option of mysqldump.

I attempted the process, but unfortunately, it did not yield the desired results. Despite this, the database was visible along with all the associated tables.
However, upon clicking on the tables, an error message indicated that they did not exist. Strangely enough, they were still visible in phpMyAdmin.
If you require an automated approach for migrating between hosts, it is recommended to employ tools such as mysqldump or mysqladmin.

While the mentioned methods may provide a solution, it's also worth considering other potential causes for the discrepancy, such as compatibility issues or incorrect configuration. Troubleshooting and thorough research can help ensure a smoother database migration process.

To ensure a successful transfer, it is advisable to create an empty database and subsequently duplicate the files. This method proves effective when using MyISAM files and a compatible MySQL version up to eight. Additionally, it is important to note that the operating system should remain consistent, whether it is Windows or Linux.

Keeping the database and file structures aligned ensures a seamless transition between servers. It is worth mentioning that compatibility issues may arise when transferring between different MySQL versions or divergent operating systems. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check and ensure all prerequisites are met before initiating the migration process.

Yes, it is possible to transfer a MySQL database from an old server to a new one by simply copying the folder containing the database. However, there are a few important points to consider.

First, make sure that both servers are running the same version of MySQL to ensure compatibility and avoid any potential issues during the transfer process.

Second, before copying the database folder, it is necessary to dump the database on the old server using the mysqldump tool. This will create a SQL file containing all the necessary instructions to recreate the database structure and data. Then, on the new server, you can create an empty database with the same name and use the MySQL command-line tool to import the dumped SQL file, which will populate the new database with the data from the old server.

Simply copying the .MYD files might not work as expected because these files only contain the actual table data, but not the structure or other metadata associated with the database.


Here are the detailed steps to accomplish this task:

1. Make sure both the old and new servers are running the same version of MySQL.

2. On the old server, use the mysqldump tool to create a dump file for the database you want to transfer. The syntax for this command is:
  ```
  mysqldump -u [username] -p [database_name] > [dump_file_path]
  ```

  Replace [username] with the appropriate MySQL user, [database_name] with the name of the database you want to transfer, and [dump_file_path] with the path where you want to save the dump file. You will be prompted to enter the MySQL password for the specified user.

3. Once the dump file is created, copy it to the new server. You can use tools like SCP or FTP to transfer the file.

4. On the new server, create an empty database with the same name as the one on the old server. You can do this using the MySQL command-line tool:
  ```
  mysql -u [username] -p -e "CREATE DATABASE [database_name]"
  ```

  Replace [username] with the appropriate MySQL user and [database_name] with the name of the database you want to create.

5. Import the dump file into the new database using the following command:
  ```
  mysql -u [username] -p [database_name] < [dump_file_path]
  ```

  Replace [username] with the appropriate MySQL user, [database_name] with the name of the new database, and [dump_file_path] with the path to the dump file you copied in step 3.

6. After the import is completed, the new server should have the transferred database with all its tables, data, and structure.


1. Before starting the transfer process, it's crucial to back up your database on the old server. This way, you have a safe copy of your data in case anything goes wrong during the transfer.

2. Ensure that the new server has enough disk space to accommodate the transferred database. Take into account the size of the database files, including both the .MYD data files and the .frm table definition files.

3. If your database has any binary log files (e.g., if it uses replication), you may need to copy those files as well and configure the new server accordingly.

4. If the old server uses MyISAM tables, make sure to copy the .MYI index files along with the .MYD data files. However, for InnoDB tables, copying the .MYD files is sufficient, as InnoDB uses a shared tablespace.

5. Verify the file permissions and ownership after copying the database files to the new server. It's essential to set the appropriate ownership and permissions to ensure that MySQL can access and work with the transferred files.

6. After importing the database on the new server, test it thoroughly to ensure everything is working as expected. Check for any errors or inconsistencies, and validate that your applications or services can access and use the newly transferred database.

7. Keep in mind that simply copying the database files is a low-level method and may not work in all scenarios. If your database has complex configurations, stored procedures, triggers, or other advanced features, consider using MySQL utilities like mysqldump or replication tools for a more reliable and comprehensive transfer.