I just tested this and can install joomla 4.40 on sme in ibay , follow the instructions to configure / setup mariadb105 :
Thanks Warren. I was pretty sure it was fairly simple but I am busy fixing some contribs right now.
As I pointed out to them, but they didn't read:
After running the mysql command, we get MariaDB version 5.5.68.
https://wiki.koozali.org/Mariadb105#Usage<sigh>
The issue is the information is there but the OP can't be bothered to read it and try to understand. They skim it, not really wanting to learn or understand. They just want it popped on a sugar coated spoon to save them their time, but happy to consume ours. it is hugely frustrating.
If they had asked "I read the wiki page and found the command mysqladmin105 and tried to create a DB and it failed" I'd have more sympathy.
As the OP pointed out, not many people use Joomla here (they do but like you, don't necessarily post), but between the documentation here, at Joomla, and a bit of trial and error and learning they would have got it fixed. Wordpress and Joomla are very similar as far as configuration goes so not difficult. I'd have probably leaped in if they had actually done something themselves. As it is they have done, and learned, nothing.
And then you ask for people help us build SME - they'll all want a new version shortly - and then they say they know nothing or are too busy, but expect 'someone else' to do it.
I think I need get out of here and retire. Too old and crochety.