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MySQL

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MySQL is an open-source relational database management system, often called an RDBMS. An RDBMS is a type of software that organizes digital information into one or more data tables. In these tables, different pieces of data are related to each other through specific connections. These relations allow the system to maintain a clear and logical structure for massive amounts of information.

The MySQL Workbench startup screen
The MySQL Workbench startup screen

To interact with this system, programmers use a specialized language called SQL, or Structured Query Language. SQL allows users to create new data, modify existing records, and extract specific information. It also provides a way to control which users have permission to access certain parts of the database.

To function, MySQL works closely with a computer's operating system to manage data within the storage system. The system handles several complex tasks at once. It manages different user accounts and allows multiple people to access the database over a network.

MySQL also helps developers test the integrity of their data to ensure it remains accurate. Another vital function is the creation of backups, which protects the information from being lost. Because it is written in the C and C++ programming languages, it is built for efficiency and speed. The software is highly versatile and runs on many different platforms, including Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows.

MySQL is often used as part of a larger group of software tools. One common example is the LAMP web application software stack. LAMP is an acronym that stands for Linux, Apache, MySQL, and Perl, PHP, or Python.

By combining these tools, developers can build complex, data-driven websites and applications. This makes MySQL a core component of modern web infrastructure. It is frequently paired with other programs rather than being used as a standalone tool. This modularity allows it to fit into many different technical environments.

The history of MySQL began in Sweden with the company MySQL AB. This company was founded by David Axmark, Allan Larsson, and Michael "Monty" Widenius.

Monty-Widenius-David-Axmark-MySQL-2003-05-09
Monty-Widenius-David-Axmark-MySQL-2003-05-09

Widenius and Axmark began the initial development process in 1994. The very first version of the software was released on May 23, 1995. Interestingly, the name "MySQL" comes from a combination of "SQL" and "My," which was the name of Widenius' daughter. The project was originally created for personal use to replace an older system called mSQL. The creators felt that mSQL was too slow and inflexible for their needs. By keeping the API consistent with mSQL, they made it easy for developers to switch to MySQL.

As the software grew, it underwent many significant changes and ownership shifts. In 2008, Sun Microsystems acquired MySQL AB for $1 billion. Shortly after, in 2010, Oracle Corporation acquired Sun Microsystems.

Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3
Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3

This acquisition caused some tension in the developer community. In response to the Oracle purchase, Monty Widenius "forked" the project. A fork occurs when a developer takes a copy of the source code to start a new, separate project. This led to the creation of MariaDB, which is based on the same code as MySQL 5.5. Today, MySQL is offered in two main editions: the free Community Server and the paid Enterprise Server.

Over the years, MySQL has introduced many advanced technical features. Version 5.0 added important tools like stored procedures, triggers, and views. Version 5.5 introduced InnoDB as the default storage engine, which supports transactions and referential integrity.

The MySQL Workbench startup screen
The MySQL Workbench startup screen

Later, version 5.7 added support for a native JSON data type. Version 8.0, announced in 2018, brought even more improvements like the NoSQL Document Store and improved sorting. These updates have helped the system stay relevant as technology changes. The software continues to evolve through a New Release Model to provide constant improvements.

The impact of MySQL on the modern internet is enormous. It is used by many of the world's most famous and high-traffic websites. For example, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube all rely on it to manage their data.

Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3
Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3

It also powers popular web applications like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal. Because it is known to be fast, stable, and capable of handling multiple users at once, it remains a top choice for developers. In 2019, it was even named the DBMS of the year by the DB-Engines ranking. This recognition highlights its essential role in the global digital ecosystem.

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File:Monty-Widenius-David-Axmark-MySQL-2003-05-09.jpg
Monty-Widenius-David-Axmark-MySQL-2003-05-09.jpg
File:Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3.jpg
Geir Høydalsvik at Percona Live Europe 2018 3.jpg
File:LAMP software bundle.svg
LAMP software bundle.svg
File:The MySQL Workbench startup screen.png
The MySQL Workbench startup screen.png
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