MySQL is a popular database management system that is used globally and across different domains. In this article, you will learn more about how it works, where it is used, and how to work with MySQL.
What is MySQL?
MySQL is widely used by web developers and large companies for storing and managing data. It is one of the most popular database management systems (DBMS) globally that supports all major operating systems: Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Databases are stored on a server, which is typically a remote computer or a cloud server. When you need data, you send a query to the server using your computer, or client, and you receive the information. To manage queries, a special language called Structured Query Language (SQL) is used.
Imagine you have an online clothing store. You need to keep track of all your products, customers, and sales. MySQL can be used for this purpose.
In the DBMS, separate tables are created for products, customers, and sales. The first table stores information about each product, such as its name, price, and available quantity. The second table contains names, contact information, and payment details. The third table holds information about customers who purchased the product, sale dates, and purchased item names.
If you want to know how many sales occurred and who bought products last month, you write a query, send it to the server, and get a list of the relevant data.
Understand the database dilemma of SQL vs NoSQL
MySQL enables storing and processing information, especially crucial when dealing with large amounts of data. A small store with one seller may record everything in an Excel spreadsheet. Still, for a large network with hundreds of daily purchases, this approach becomes inconvenient.
However, MySQL is not only used in retail but in any context where data is involved.
What is SQL?
To communicate with a database, you need to know its language – SQL, which stands for Structured Query Language. Each query must follow a specific structure for the database to understand you.
At the beginning of the query, there is an action – delete, select, add, followed by a keyword indicating from which table to extract information. Further, there is a statement explaining which details and from which cell of the table to retrieve. The query may also include a condition at the end: for example, the action will be performed only under specific circumstances.
Queries are entered through the terminal – for this, you need to download a specific program. With its help, you can create and modify tables, link them, add and delete data, and find what you need.
Here’s an SQL crash course for a beginner to explore.
What is MySQL used for?
With MySQL, you can store any type of data: text, numbers, images, audio and video files, and graphics. Thanks to the system’s performance, even very large volumes of data can be stored, and everything will still function normally. Obtaining the required information can be quick if you know how to use SQL.
MySQL addresses the issue of multiple users when several users are modifying data in the database simultaneously, and only one version is saved. When a user connects to MySQL, the server creates a new entry for them in the metadata table, containing information about the connection state, including the current transaction, if any. This ensures that the data is kept up-to-date.
Here’s a guide to understanding different types of databases
Additionally, MySQL uses a system of locks to control access to data. When a user tries to access a table, MySQL checks if the table is locked by another user. If the table is locked, the user must wait until the lock is released. This prevents data from being overwritten, and nothing is lost.
Different permissions allow server administrators to manage users’ access to various functions and data. For example, access can be granted only to the data necessary for work, enhancing data storage security.
Who uses MySQL?
Here are a few examples of how large companies use MySQL:
Tesla uses MySQL to store and process data about its cars, including battery status, mileage, speed, and other parameters. MySQL allows Tesla to quickly access this data and analyze it to improve the performance and safety of their cars.
Netflix stores data about its users, such as viewing history, preferences, and recommendations, using a DBMS. This tool helps the company improve its recommendations and personalize content.
PayPal utilizes MySQL to collect and store transaction information, using this data to enhance the security and efficiency of payments.
Essentially, MySQL can be applied in any application or web service, be it an online cinema, a store, a blog, or social network.
Advantages of MySQL
These advantages make MySQL one of the most popular and widely used database management systems in the world:
- It is free to use; MySQL has open-source code.
- No need to worry about performance; MySQL is optimized to handle a large number of queries.
- No need to worry about data; MySQL supports backup and restoration mechanisms that ensure data integrity.
- Applications are easily expandable; MySQL supports various data storage types, table engines (such as InnoDB, and MyISAM), and other features that enable developers to create complex applications.
How is the MySQL database management system structured?
MySQL consists of several components, each serving specific functions:
- The main component manages all database operations. The MySQL server receives requests from clients, processes them, performs necessary data operations, and returns the results to clients.
- Mysqld Service. A process running on the server responsible for managing databases. It accepts requests from clients, processes them, performs read and write data operations, manages transactions, and ensures data security.
- Data Storage. MySQL uses various types of data storage, such as InnoDB, MyISAM, MEMORY, and others, each with specific features designed for certain data types or tasks.
- Client Applications. Various client applications, such as MySQL Workbench, phpMyAdmin, the MySQL command-line interface, and others, are used to work with MySQL. These applications allow administrators and developers to create, modify, and manage databases through graphical or text interfaces, such as the terminal.
Explore the debate between traditional vs vector databases
How to work with MySQL
Let’s go through using the database management system step by step.
- Installation and setup of MySQL
To work with MySQL, you need to install the database server on your computer or use online hosting. You can download the program from the official Oracle website, especially if you are working on significant projects. However, for educational purposes, I will be using MySQL in the browser.
- Creating a database
Next, you can create databases and tables, add data, execute queries to retrieve information, and much more using SQL. Let’s create a table for friends from a TV show and their professions.
- Adding data
Populate the tables with data using INSERT statements or import data from files.
- Retrieving data
Use the SELECT statement to extract data from the table. You can perform various queries, filter data, sort, and group results.
- Updating and deleting data
Use UPDATE and DELETE statements to modify and remove data from the table.
- Run the program by clicking “Run.”
We see the program’s results on the right. We requested information about a person working in PR and received the answer – Chandler.
This is just a general overview of the process of working with MySQL. For more detailed information and to learn about SQL queries, functions, and MySQL capabilities, refer to the MySQL documentation.
Here’s an overview of MySQL, tools you need to interface with the newly set up RDBMS, and a few datasets that can be used to populate a small testing environment.
