When I Do My Coding

What is MySQL?

MySQL is a relational database management system (RDBMS) that runs as a server providing multi-user access to a number of databases. MySQL is officially pronounced /maɪˌɛskjuːˈɛl/ (“My S-Q-L”), but is often also pronounced /maɪˈsiːkwəl/ (“My Sequel”). It is named after developer Michael Widenius’ daughter, My. The SQL phrase stands for Structured Query Language.

The MySQL development project has made its source code available under the terms of the GNU General Public License, as well as under a variety ofproprietary agreements. MySQL was owned and sponsored by a single for-profit firm, the Swedish company MySQL AB, now owned by Oracle Corporation.

Free-software projects that require a full-featured database management system often use MySQL. Where the project may lead to something in commercial use, the license terms need careful study. Some free software project examples: WordPress, phpBB, Drupal and other software built on the LAMP software stack. MySQL is also used in many high-profile, large-scale World Wide Web products.

Why MySQL?

The MySQL database has become the world’s most popular open source database because of its high performance, high reliability and ease of use. It is also the database of choice for a new generation of applications built on the LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP / Perl / Python.) Many of the world’s largest and fastest-growing organizations including Facebook, Google, Adobe, Alcatel Lucent and Zappos rely on MySQL to save time and money powering their high-volume Web sites, business-critical systems and packaged software.

MySQL runs on more than 20 platforms including Linux, Windows, Mac OS, Solaris, HP-UX, IBM AIX, giving you the kind of flexibility that puts you in control. Whether you’re new to database technology or an experienced developer or DBA, MySQL offers a comprehensive range of database tools, support, training and consulting services to make you successful.