Common SQL Errors

MySQL Error 2054: CR_NOT_IMPLEMENTED - Meaning, Causes, and Fixes

Galaxy Team
August 5, 2025

Error 2054 occurs when the MySQL client library does not support a feature required by the server, such as a newer authentication plugin or protocol extension.

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What is MySQL error 2054 CR_NOT_IMPLEMENTED?

MySQL Error 2054: CR_NOT_IMPLEMENTED signals that your client is too old to handle a feature demanded by the server, most often the caching_sha2_password authentication plugin introduced in MySQL 8.0. Upgrade the client or switch the user account to a supported plugin (e.g., mysql_native_password) to resolve the problem.

Error Highlights

Typical Error Message

This feature is not implemented yet

Error Type

Client Error

Language

MySQL

Symbol

CR_NOT_IMPLEMENTED

Error Code

2054

SQL State

Explanation

Table of Contents

What is MySQL error 2054 (CR_NOT_IMPLEMENTED)?

MySQL returns client error 2054 with the message "This feature is not implemented yet" when a connection request includes a capability the client library cannot understand or execute. The mismatch usually involves authentication plugins or compression protocols that were introduced after the client was built.

Because authentication occurs before a SQL statement is run, the connection fails instantly, preventing any interaction with the server.

Fixing it quickly restores access and avoids workflow interruptions for applications and users.

What Causes This Error?

The primary cause is an outdated client or connector that predates the server feature set.

For example, MySQL 8.0 defaults to the caching_sha2_password plugin, which MySQL 5.7 clients do not recognize.

Custom builds that disable certain protocols, mismatched OpenSSL versions, or MariaDB clients connecting to Oracle MySQL servers can also trigger the error because required capability flags are missing.

How to Fix MySQL Error 2054

Upgrading to a client library that matches or exceeds the server version instantly resolves the mismatch.

Package managers such as apt, yum, Homebrew, or pip usually have compatible builds.

When an immediate upgrade is impossible, change the affected MySQL account to use a plugin the client supports, such as mysql_native_password. This workaround lets legacy applications reconnect while you plan a proper upgrade.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

Developers using older PHP or Python connectors against a newly upgraded MySQL 8 server hit 2054 during authentication.

Installing the latest mysqlclient or mysql-connector resolves the issue.

In containerized environments, base images may bundle libmysqlclient 5.7. Rebuilding the image with a newer library or Alpine package version brings the client in line with the server capabilities.

Best Practices to Avoid This Error

Keep client libraries in lockstep with server versions via automated CI builds or container images. Pin exact versions to ensure predictable behavior during deployments.

Test connection workflows in staging after any MySQL upgrade.

Galaxy’s connection testing panel can surface 2054 instantly, helping teams remediate before production traffic is affected.

Related Errors and Solutions

Error 1251 (Client does not support authentication protocol) is similar but scoped to password hashing mismatches. Upgrading the client or switching the plugin solves both.

Error 1045 (Access denied) may appear after changing plugins without updating passwords. Always run ALTER USER ... IDENTIFIED BY ... to regenerate credentials when switching authentication methods.

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Common Causes

Related Errors

FAQs

Do I need to downgrade the server to fix 2054?

No. Upgrading or rebuilding the client is safer and preserves new server features.

Is mysql_native_password less secure than caching_sha2_password?

mysql_native_password uses SHA1 hashing and is considered weaker. Use it only as a temporary workaround.

How does Galaxy help diagnose this error?

Galaxy’s connection tester displays the full handshake error, flags 2054 instantly, and links to relevant documentation so you can act fast.

Will enabling SSL fix 2054?

SSL alone does not fix capability mismatches, but ensuring both client and server share the same SSL library version can help prevent related errors.

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