What is MySQL?

MySQL (can be pronounced by mai-es-ki-el or mai-si-kuel) is a relation database software (Relational Database Management System or abbreviated as RDBMS), as well as Oracle, PostgreSQL, MS SQL, and so on. Do not misunderstanding that MySQL term is the same as SQL terms. The SQL (stands for Structured Query Language) is a  specific commands,  syntax or language (programming?) used to manage a database. So, MySQL and SQL are two different 'things'. Let's say, MySQL is the software, while SQL is the language or command. Is it clear enough? :)

History of MySQL and SQL

Learn more about what and how, the history, functions and others, please visit the official website http://www.mysql.com.

 
What Operating System that support?


MySQL is supported by many operating systems, such as Linux, Unix, Windows, Solaris, FreeBSD, Mac OS X, HP UX, IBM AIX, SCO Unix, SGI Irix, Dec OSF, and so on. MySQL also supported for a computer with 32-bit processor and 64-bit (AMD 64 X2 and Intel Core 2 Duo).

What needs to be prepared earlier ...

Before continuing this tutorial, you must have MySQL installed properly on your computer system. MySQL can be downloaded directly from www.mysql.com. There are two types of products offered: Community Edition and Enterprise Edition. The difference is, Community Edition is the Open Source flag with consequences free download, free to use, but with limited support from the developer. The Enterprise Edition, there are license fees and maintenance service that must be paid to the developer (per year, or according to contract), and you will get full support from them. For this tutorial, we will use the Community Edition for sure. That should suffice.


You are recommended to use the latest stable version of MySQL. As of July 2010, the latest version of MySQL is MySQL 5.1.49 (Community Edition). Please read the related tutorial on this site about how to install MySQL.

Note:
This tutorial use MySQL version 5.1.45. You can still use the prior versions or the latest version of MySQL. Basically, the commands are the same and can follow the steps in this tutorial.