introduction
MySQL is used for storing an organization's information. It is an open source RDBMS that relies on SQL for processing the data in the database. It is often used to provide storage for website applications.
MySQL is protected by an open license. Closed RDBMS (Relational Database Management Systems) suppliers include Oracle, Sybase and Microsoft.
what it is
Pronounced “my ess cue el” (each letter separately) and not “my SEE kwill.” MySQL is an open source RDBMS that relies on SQL for processing the data in the database. MySQL provides APIs for the languages C, C++, Eiffel, Java, Perl, PHP and Python. In addition, OLE DB and ODBC providers exist for MySQL data connection in the Microsoft environment. A MySQL .NET Native Provider is also available, which allows native MySQL to .NET access without the need for OLE DB.
Commercial web sites usually use a database server. MySQL is often used for web applications. It is a popular alternative to closed database systems because of its speed and reliability. MySQL can run on UNIX, Windows and Mac OS.
MySQL is developed, supported and marketed by MySQL AB. The database is available for free under the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL) or for a fee to those who do not wish to be bound by the terms of the GPL.
PHPMyAdmin is a popular GUI for adminstering MySQL and MySQL databases. PHPMyAdmin is a web-based GUI front end that can be used by anyone with a web browser, the right network connection and a MySQL account.
what it isn't
It is not an entirely open or closed product. GPL licensing makes commercial organizations a little nervous. Closed licensing means you cannot create a development community.
where it is
protected from customers.
history
In 1979 Michael Widenius at the Swedish company TcX developed a database management tool called UNIREG.
In 1994 TcX started altering UNIREG to talk SQL. The added in bits of another database product called mSQL by David Hughes.
In 1995 TcX released MySQL v1.0 on the Internet.
