How to Reduce MySQL Binary Logs Disk Usage on a cPanel Server

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Introduction:
This guide explains how to reduce disk usage caused by mysql-bin log files in /var/lib/mysql.

Binary logs store database changes and can grow quickly on active servers, filling disk space.
By configuring log expiration, old logs will be automatically removed.

Prerequisites:

  • Root or sudo access
  • SSH access to the server
  • MySQL/MariaDB running

Step 1:
Log in to the server or access the terminal via WHM.

$ ssh root@your-server-ip

Step 2:
Open the MySQL configuration file and edit it.

$ vi /etc/my.cnf

Add the following line under the [mysqld] section:

binlog_expire_logs_seconds = 86400

Explanation

  • 86400 = 1 day
  • This means logs older than 1 day will be automatically deleted

You can adjust as needed:

  • 604800 → 7 days
  • 2592000 → 30 days

Step 3:
Restart the MySQL service.

$ systemctl restart mysqld

Conclusion
By applying this configuration:
1. Old mysql-bin files will be automatically removed
2. Disk usage will be controlled
3. Future disk space issues will be prevented

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