Why Would I Want MySQL?

First, let's talk about what it is. Then, you can decide for yourself whether or not it is for you.

What is a Database?

A database is an organized collection of information (data) stored on a computer. You could think of it as a really smart filing cabinet.

The address book of your email software is a database. A to-do list is a database (when stored on a computer).

A database is often organized as records and fields. A record can be considered one complete chunk of information and fields being the different types of information in that chunk.

But it doesn't have to be records and fields. Flat-file databases are one chunk of information per line, with or without fields. The to-do list mentioned above, for example.

And there are sophisticated databases, such as ones that contain membership records or are used to generate web pages on-the-fly. MySQL is especially suited to handle those.

What is MySQL?

The "SQL" part of MySQL means "Structured Query Language" and refers to databases. SQL commands are standardized so different software can use the same databases.

MySQL is database software that uses SQL to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. MySQL could properly be referred to as a database engine.

You tell MySQL to "store this in this format" and it does it. You say "change this into this" and it takes care of it. You request certain information and it gets it for you. The back-end filing and sorting is taken care of automatically.

MySQL can handle many users and simultaneous accesses.

Many web sites that require intensive data retrieval and manipulation use MySQL as the database engine. Bookstores, article directories, catalog sites, shipping information, and blogs are examples.

Popular programming languages, including Perl and PHP, can connect with MySQL and use it for data storage and retrieval. This is often more efficient than coding an independent database for each project.

When small flat files will serve well as databases, using MySQL may be overkill. For sophisticated database requirements, however, MySQL can be ideal.

How is MySQL Pronounced?

The official way to pronounce "MySQL" is "My Ess Que Ell" (according to this page at mysql.com).

It is often prounced "my sequel." At our house it is simply "my squill."

What Alternatives Are There?

Database functions are available for many popular programming languages. Some can handle sophisticated databases.

Perl, for example, has modules available for storing and manipulating data that are efficient and reliable for up to medium-size databases. These generally have one key per record. Manipulation of fields in the record needs to be programmed for separately.