mysql: slow alter?

Question

MySQL

Hi guys. There is a need for production in a table in which 1M records to insert one more field.
But alter in mysql copies the entire table , which is why such an operation is very long. Server - combat, simple - unacceptable. Maybe there is a possibility to add one more field to the table so as not to block the site? What do you suggest?
Debian 5, Mysql 5.1,
2gb ram, Intel® Atom(TM) CPU D510 @ 1.66GHz
+ replication server connected (slave)

Answer 1

Since you have mastered normal replication, then deal with master-master replication as well. Alternately on each server make ALTER. While ALTER is running, send requests to another server.
>2gb ram, Intel® Atom(TM) CPU D510 @ 1.66GHz
>Server - combat, simple - unacceptable.
I don't really believe it, by the way.

Answer 2

CREATE TABLE new_name (new Layout); 

INSERT INTO new_name 
SELECT (column_list) FROM old_name; 

RENAME TABLE old_name TO to_delete_name, new_name TO old_name;

The bottom line is that you can copy all the data into a new table. Minus - during this time it is better not to write new data, because. they may not make it into the copy.