How has user authentication plugins changed in recent MySQL versions?

Recent MySQL versions have introduced significant changes to user authentication plugins, enhancing security and flexibility in database management. This evolution includes the introduction of default authentication plugins and the ability to use multiple authentication methods.
MySQL, user authentication, authentication plugins, security, database management

In MySQL 8.0 and later, the default authentication plugin is caching_sha2_password, which is more secure compared to the previous mysql_native_password. Here is an example of how to create a user with the new authentication method:

CREATE USER 'new_user'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED WITH caching_sha2_password BY 'user_password';

This allows for better password storage and management. Additionally, users can still opt for legacy methods for compatibility reasons.


MySQL user authentication authentication plugins security database management