I'm new to Linux and Zorin OS (16 Pro owned from a few years ago) and I'm trying to install MariaDB-server using the command: sudo apt install mariadb-server
Once installed if I use the command: systectl status mariadb
to check the version number I see: mariadb.server - MariaDB 10.3.39 database server
MariaDB 10.3.39 is already at end of life and does not meet system requirements for a Wordpress plugin that I want to use (Elementor). On mariadb.com there are multiple guides on upgrading from point releases to full versions all the way up to 11.4 but as a novice these are beyond me - why does MariaDB 10.3.39 get installed when I execute the command and is there a way to install a more current version if I remove the old one? Thanks!
When You install a Program from the Sources (apt install) it is an older Version because Zorin OS is an LTS Distro. So, newer Version are rare. The existing Versions will be supported with Security Updates and Bugfixes - not more.
When You want install the most up-to-date Version, You can download it from their Website. I saw on the Download-Site that Linux Versions are available. You need the one for Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy because Zorin OS 17 is based on that. If You use Zorin 16, You have to take Ubuntu 20.04 Focal. And take the 64bit x86 Version.
I would recommend using something like Docker if you are working on developing some themes or previewing a site locally on your machine. This would solve all your problems regarding dependencies, although it comes at the cost of a slightly more complex deploy. But, even if only for development, this alone would be worth it already.