MySQL: expire_logs_days System Variable

Our MySQL database crashed because the disk where the data files are hit 100% usage. Eventhough, there was a script that runs, checks, and purges the bin logs, a flaw prevented it from deleting the logs. The script was modified to correct the issue.



But there's another way and it avoids creating a script that manually deletes the bin logs. We can set a system variable called expire_logs_days. This parameter deletes log files that are greater than the value specified. It is dynamic and can be changed on-the-fly. Make sure that the value is at least the maximum number of lag days before the bin logs are applied.

To change it, log into the database as a super user (usually root) and set the global variable:

mysql> set global expire_logs_days=7;

After changing it, make sure that you modify the .ini file also to reflect the value.