Chapter 2. Introducing MySQL
In this chapter, you’ll learn what MySQL is, and the tools you can use when working with it.
What Is MySQL?
In the previous chapter you learned about databases and SQL. As explained, it is the database software (DBMS or Database Management System) that actually does all the work of storing, retrieving, managing, and manipulating data. MySQL is a DBMS; that is, it is database software.
MySQL has been around for a long time, and is now installed and in use at millions of installations worldwide. Why do so many organizations and developers use MySQL? Here are some of the reasons:
Cost—. MySQL is open-source, and is usually free to use (and even modify) the software without paying for it.
Performance—. MySQL is fast (make that ...
Get MySQL® Crash Course now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
