What is MySQL And How to Use It Properly?
Data needs to be stored somewhere. Randomly storing data isn’t going to help anyone. Data needs to be stored in order, so that it can be recalled when necessary, and quickly, too. There are many ways to do this, but typically, we opt for databases, the things that hold data and organize it according to the criteria that you select.
Well, databases are also necessary for the internet and there are a plethora of those that you could download and use right now. Not all of them are MySQL, of course. Here is everything that you should know about MySQL as well as how to use it properly.
MySQL – Database Management System
MySQL was created by Micahel Widenius, hence the My in the name, to signify his daughter’s name. SQL refers to the abbreviation for structured query language. It was released in 1995 and is open source to this day.
MySQL was written in C and C++ and is a solid RDBMS, which is often used with other tools to manage databases online. Some of the largest companies use MySQL, like YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.
When Oracle bought MySQL AB, the company who built MySQL, founder Michale Widenius made a GPL only fork of MySQL, called MariaDB (named after his other daughter).
How to Use MySQL
MySQL is a relational database that works in the client-server system. You catalog all the goodies on a site, meaning all the content and you categorize it. When a client has a request, which takes the shape of an SQL request, the server responds and sends the relevant data from the database.
This is a simplification of how the process works, but it is rather easy to install and work with. MySQL is one of the most popular RDBMSs out there, so there is huge community support for it, not to mention that it is already in use by one of the most popular CMSs, WordPress.
Note that a GUI for managing MySQL is recommended, something like SequelPro or MySQL WorkBench.
Why Use MySQL?
People have been using this RDBMS for a long time and there is a good reason for it. It is safe, secure and has been a standard in the industry since its inception. Being open source, you know what it is about what its source code is. You can trust it.
It is also really fast and performs as expected, without any hiccups or delays. When running a site which is time-sensitive, meaning any site, given the patience of modern consumers, a fast database manager is mandatory.
It has huge compatibility with other database tools and especially back-end development tools, making it easy to implement and easy to transport, should there be a change in the system.
Where Can You Apply It?
MySQL is best applied when you need fast data management and fast performance when handling lots of data. Any website could benefit with a MySQL RDBMS because you would be able to quickly and simply organize the content, without having to spend hours on making sure that things run fast.
Given its compatibility, it allows for using plugins and extensions, which improve quality of life, by making your job easier.
MySQL is an open source RDBMS which is used worldwide, by large companies, medium ones and small businesses alike, to manage their content on websites and applications.
