MySQL

In many ways MySQL is very similar to Microsoft SQL. It is essentially a relational database but the primary difference is that MySQL is open source, where as Microsoft SQL is proprietary. The open source, and therefore free, nature of MySQL has led to hoards of websites using MySQL as their database backend.

Applications which use MySQL include Joomla, WordPress, MyBB, Drupal and many more. Google, Facebook and Wikipedia also use MySQL – although Google doesn’t use MySQL for its searches – for that it uses a database Google created itself specifically for the purpose.

MySQL is currently at version 5.5 and with version 6.0 well on the way is continuing to grow. We’d recommend using MySQL for a wide range of web applications, especially blogging, content management systems and any wiki style websites.

What it's good for

Open Source

Free edition of MySQL available, ideal for software projects on a tight budget

Scalable

All the power and features your small to medium sized application will need.

Performance and stability

MySQL packs powerful performance in to its small footprint.