Error installing mysql2: Failed to build gem native extension
Installing the mysql2 gem can be challenging, especially when building the native extension fails due to missing dependencies. This tutorial will show you how to resolve this issue on Ubuntu/Debian-based distributions.
Prerequisites
Make sure you have Ruby and Bundler installed on your system. If not, you can install them using the following commands:
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sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install ruby-full
sudo gem install bundler
Step-by-Step Solution
-
Install the Required Dependency
The
mysql2gem needs the MySQL development package to compile the native extension. Run the command below to install the necessary dependency:1
sudo apt-get install libmysqlclient-dev -
Install the
mysql2GemWith the dependency installed, you can now install the
mysql2gem:1
gem install mysql2If you are using Bundler, add the gem to your
Gemfileand runbundle install:1
gem 'mysql2', '~> 0.5'
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bundle install
Common Troubleshooting
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Error:
mysql.hfile not foundThis error indicates that the MySQL header file is not available. Ensure the
libmysqlclient-devpackage is correctly installed.1
sudo apt-get install libmysqlclient-dev -
Permission Error
If you encounter permission errors when installing the gem, try using
sudo:1
sudo gem install mysql2
Conclusion
By following the steps above, you should be able to install the mysql2 gem without issues. This process ensures all necessary dependencies are present, allowing the native extension to build correctly.
If you continue to experience problems, check the official mysql2 gem documentation or seek help from communities like Stack Overflow.
We hope this tutorial has been helpful. If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave a comment below!
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