How to Fix the “Your Password Does Not Satisfy the Current Policy Requirements” MySQL Error

Encountering the “Your password does not satisfy the current policy requirements” error in MySQL can be a daunting task for beginners. However, this guide will provide you with straightforward steps to resolve this issue, helping you get back on track with your MySQL database projects.

Why Does the “Your Password Does Not Satisfy the Current Policy Requirements” Error Occur in MySQL?

Starting from MySQL version 5.7.6, a plugin named ’validate_password’ is included by default. This plugin enforces constraints on new passwords to ensure they are secure. The enforced policy settings include:

• Length: The password should meet a minimum length requirement, which by default is set to 8 characters.
• Complexity: The password should include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and special characters.
• Dictionary check: The password should not be a commonly used one.

If the password you’re trying to set doesn’t satisfy any of these criteria based on the server’s policy, you’ll encounter the “Your password does not satisfy the current policy requirements” error.

There are a few potential solutions to this issue: creating a stronger password, changing the password policy, or temporarily disabling the validation plugin.

Solution #1: Create a Stronger Password

In MySQL, the ‘validate_password’ plugin uses several variables to determine its password strength policy. These policies, designed to ensure system security, enforce certain rules for password creation. The policy is defined by the ‘validate_password_policy’ system variable, which can take one of three values: LOW, MEDIUM, or STRONG.

1. LOW: This policy primarily tests password length, which by default, is set to 8 characters.
2. MEDIUM: This policy not only tests password length, but also checks whether the password includes mixed-case characters, numbers, and special characters.
3. STRONG: This policy includes all the checks in the MEDIUM policy and further checks the password against a dictionary file of common passwords. This is the strictest policy.

To fix the error related to a weak password, create a password that adheres to these policies. For instance, “My$ecureP@ssw0rd!” is a strong password.

Solution #2: Change the Password Policy

If you have the privilege to change server settings and wish to reduce the restrictions, you can adjust the password validation policy. Be aware, though, that reducing the security policy could potentially expose your server to attacks. The variables associated with password validation include:

• validate_password_length: Defines the required password length.
• validate_password_number_count: Specifies the required number of digits in the password.
• validate_password_mixed_case_count: Sets the required number of uppercase and lowercase characters in the password.
• validate_password_special_char_count: Determines the required number of non-alphanumeric characters in the password.
• validate_password_policy: This variable can be set to LOW, MEDIUM, or STRONG, representing the level of the policy.

These variables can be set in your MySQL configuration file or dynamically with the SET GLOBAL command. Here’s an example of setting these policies dynamically:

SET GLOBAL validate_password_length = 8;
SET GLOBAL validate_password_number_count = 0;
SET GLOBAL validate_password_mixed_case_count = 0;
SET GLOBAL validate_password_special_char_count = 0;
SET GLOBAL validate_password_policy = LOW;

Solution #3: Temporarily Disable the Password Validation Plugin

Note: Disabling the plugin could leave your database vulnerable. It’s recommended to use this option only in controlled, non-production environments.

If you’re setting up a development environment or another non-production environment where security isn’t as crucial, you might choose to temporarily disable the ’validate_password’ plugin:

UNINSTALL PLUGIN validate_password;

Remember to reinstall the plugin when you’re done:

INSTALL PLUGIN validate_password SONAME 'validate_password.so';

That’s it! Resolving the “Your password does not satisfy the current policy requirements” error in MySQL involves understanding the password policies enforced by the ’validate_password’ plugin and then adjusting your approach accordingly. Whether it’s creating a stronger password that meets the necessary criteria, modifying the password policy settings to reduce the restrictions, or temporarily disabling the password validation plugin (mainly in non-production environments), each method has its applications based on your specific needs. By effectively navigating these solutions, you can ensure a smoother experience with MySQL, all while upholding essential security practices.