updating a mysql config variable (ft_min_word_len)?

I need to set ft_min_word_len = 3. I never restarted my mysql server on my production server. So I fear this moment :).

Are there any way to set ft_min_word_len = 3 without restarting mysql? And if i must restart it, can you tell me the exact step I have to do?

I am on Devian GNU/Linux MySQL: 5.0.32

(where I can find where is the mysql config开发者_运维百科uration file?)

Thanks a lot

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No, I'm afraid you need to restart MySQL for it to accept the change. That said, there's nothing to be afraid of, as this won't affect any data. (If you're feeling paranoid, simply carry out the change/restart at an off-peak time, when site traffic is low.)

In terms of the configuration file, I think it lives in /etc/mysql/my.cnf on Debian. (If not, check /etc/my.cnf.)

To restart the service, simply issue a "/etc/init.d/mysql restart" command and all should be well.