How-To increase max_allowed_packet for MySQL?

Introduction

There are numerous instances when MySQL will require a higher max_allowed_packet value for the desired function to complete properly.  

Procedure

This variable's value can be increased at the main MySQL configuration file located at /etc/my.cnf. This particular variable can be added under both the [mysqld] and [mysqldump] section within the configuration file. Typically unless you are trying to specifically change the value when using the mysqldump command, you will want to update the variable under [mysqld] to whatever value meets your needs. It will look like the following by default:

max_allowed_packet=268435456

More information on this value can be found at:

https://dev.mysql.com/doc/refman/8.0/en/replication-features-max-allowed-packet.html