MySQL is one of the most popular Relational Database Management Systems in the world. That's why we also use MySQL during the educational process. In this topic, you will learn about this DBMS, its advantages, disadvantages, and peculiarities.
What is MySQL
MySQL introduces a relational database management system (RDBMS). It allows users to interact with databases (view, search, add and manage data).
MySQL is developed by Oracle — the largest manufacturer of software for organizations. The official website of MySQL is https://www.mysql.com. There you can get detailed information about the product, its developers, and installation instructions.
SQL and MySQL
In a nutshell, SQL is a querying language and MySQL is a database management service. SQL is a language used to operate with records. MySQL is a system that allows storing data in an organized database. So, the MySQL provides your interaction with information using the SQL query language.
For example, there are many other RDBMS besides MySQL: Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Oracle Database, and others. All of them use SQL as query language.
Advantages of MySQL
MySQL has several advantages that make this RDBMS in high demand. Let's look closer at the most important ones of them.
Security. Data security in MySQL is an amazing benefit. Especially for applications where some confidential data or money transfers are processed. For example, in eCommerce, banking, and government websites.
Scalability. MySQL provides great scalability that allows building high-load systems without taking many places on servers. This solution allows a complete customization database with unique project requirements.
Performance. Thanks to its high performance, MySQL can process lots of queries quickly. So you can build high-load systems without having to worry about performance.
Workflow control. You can manage all the features based on the needs of your project. MySQL is also cross-platform, so it can efficiently work on Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Disadvantages of MySQL
Like any other technology, MySQL has some disadvantages as well. Let's talk about some of them.
Big amounts of data. MySQL is not very efficient in handling very large databases.
Hard to debug. MySQL doesn't have as good a developing and debugging tool as compared to the paid database management systems.
Despite this MySQL is still a very good solution for different projects. Therefore, MySQL is used by Uber, Netflix, Amazon, Twitter, and other big IT companies.
Conclusion
So, now you know a little more about MySQL. You also should mind that MySQL's syntax of SQL can be different from other database management systems.
Let's review some key facts:
MySQL is an RDBMS that uses SQL as the language for querying databases.
MySQL is one of the most popular database management systems, and it has its advantages and disadvantages.