MySQL

MySQL is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that uses Structured Query Language (SQL) to store, manage, and retrieve data. Known for its speed, reliability, and ease of use, MySQL is widely used in web development, data-driven applications, and backend systems. It supports structured data in the form of tables with rows and columns and enforces relationships between them using keys and constraints.

Also known as: My Structured Query Language, MySQL Server

Comparisons

• MySQL vs. PostgreSQL: MySQL prioritizes performance and ease of use, while PostgreSQL focuses on advanced features and standards compliance.

• MySQL vs. NoSQL: MySQL is relational and schema-based, whereas NoSQL databases are non-relational and better suited for flexible, unstructured data.

Pros

• Fast and reliable for read-heavy applications.

• Widely supported by hosting providers and development tools.

• Strong community support and extensive documentation.

Cons

• Less suited for handling large-scale, unstructured data compared to NoSQL options.

• Some limitations in complex transactional workloads or advanced SQL features.

Example

A developer builds a web application that stores user profiles in a MySQL database. Each profile is saved in a table with fields like name, email, and registration date. They can use SQL queries to insert new users, retrieve information, or update existing records as the app grows.