The database has become an integral part of almost every human's life. Without it, many things we do would become very tedious, perhaps impossible tasks. Banks, universities, and libraries are three examples of organizations that depend heavily on some sort of database system. On the Internet, search engines, online shopping, and even the website naming convention (http://www...) would be impossible without the use of a database. A database that is implemented and interfaced on a computer is often termed a database server.

One of the fastest SQL (Structured Query Language) database servers currently on the market is the MySQL server, developed by T.c.X. DataKonsultAB. MySQL, available for download at http://www.mysql.com, offers the database programmer with an array of options and capabilities rarely seen in other database servers. What's more, MySQL is free of charge for those wishing to use it for private and commercial use. Those wishing to develop applications specifically using MySQL should consult MySQL's licensing section, as there is a charge for licensing the product.

These capabilities range across a number of topics, including the following:

• Ability to handle an unlimited number of simultaneous users.
• Capacity to handle 50,000,000+ records.
• Very fast command execution, perhaps the fastest to be found on the market.
• Easy and efficient user privilege system.

So Who's Using MySQL?

This database server has gained enormous popularity within corporate circles, including the following organizations:

• Silicon Graphics (http://www.sgi.com)
• Siemens (http://www.siemens.com)

This article will aid the reader in learning the basic operations of the MySQL server, including how to make a proper connection, set up the server for consequential manipulation and execute basic commands. If you already have a basic understanding of MySQL, feel free to skip ahead to the more advanced sections. Remember, however, that the commands covered within this article are among the most important commands within the language, as they form the basis for the more advanced commands.

Important note: Before reading on, it is of importance to note that the MySQL server is an extra service that, while offered by many Internet Service Providers, usually must be requested before it can be used. Be sure to ask your Provider to establish and configure a MySQL account for you before beginning the exercises in the following pages.