MySQL is a type of database that is open source. Of course, there are many forms of databases other than MySQL itself. In making a complex application that can be run dynamically, a database is needed to store various data in the form of information.
Websites and mobile-based applications require a database server to accommodate large amounts of information. For example in terms of URLs, usernames, passwords, user information, etc. MySQL can manage all kinds of databases so that they can be managed properly.
What is MySQL
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Definition
MySQL is a DBMS (Database Management System) using SQL (Structured Query Language) commands that are widely used today in making web-based applications. MySQL is divided into two licenses, the first is Free Software where the software can be accessed by anyone. And second is Shareware where proprietary software has limitations in its use.
MySQL is included in the RDBMS (Relational Database Management System). So, using tables, columns, rows, in its database structure. So, in the process of data collection using the relational database method. And also a liaison between the software and the database server.
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Function
Broadly speaking, the function of MySQL is to create and manage databases on the server side that contain various information using the SQL language. Another function it has is that it makes it easier for users to access data containing information in the form of String (text), which can be accessed personally or publicly on the web.
Almost all web server providers or hosts provide facilities for MySQL in developing web-based applications to be managed by web developers. Then, the interface of MySQL is PHPMyAdmin. Which serves to connect the PHP programming language with MySQL for the database management process on the web.
The advantages of MySQL
The following are some of the advantages, measured in terms of use and features.
1. Open Source
For the use of MySQL can be accessed by anyone and at any time. Because it has two licenses, namely Free Software and Shareware. It is also included in the database management system which is provided free of charge. Also, it has a lot of communities and documentation to help you develop applications using a database server.
2. Supports Multi-User Usage
MySQL can also be used together at one time because it is Multi User. So, you don't have to worry about accessing the database at the same time. The advantage here is that the development team can work on the database simultaneously (team work).
3. Integrated with other programming languages
Another advantage is that it can be integrated with other programming languages such as PHP. By using PHPMyAdmin as an intermediary, you can create a database on a web server more effectively. Then, it can also be used for software development needs using frameworks such as Laravel, and CodeIgniter.
4. Serving Varied Data Types
The data types presented in MySQL are also very varied. Examples are data types varchar, integer, float, double, date, timestamp, etc. In this case, you can group various data according to information criteria more accurately and effectively. Database management on the server will also be helped by the many types of data types to develop complex and structured software.
5. Table structure tends to be flexible
When compared to the table structure of other databases such as Oracle and Postgre, MySQL is relatively easier. Why is that? Because for example, in the execution process, ALTER TABLE is easier to use and faster to process.
6. Guaranteed Security System
MySQL can set user permissions (user) with high encryption. In addition, there are several other security features such as, the name level on the host, and the creation of a subnet mask. So, it doesn't mean that open source software makes security bad.
7. Does not require a large RAM capacity
MySQL can be installed on devices with limited RAM capacity. When compared to other databases, it can run with a small memory capacity. It is suitable for use by everyone to help develop applications with low RAM consumption.
8. Portable software
The next advantage that MySQL has is that the software is portable. Portable here means that the database system can be processed in various platforms (multi-platform).
9. Support for Low Hardware Specifications
MySQL is very supportive for hardware devices that have low specifications. So, don't worry for those of you who have low PC / laptop specs. By using this DBMS, you can also create a database system for servers on a website.
10. Have good performance
The last advantage it has is in terms of its performance. The speed in query handling is very fast. Then, it can also handle SQL processing per unit time.
Disadvantages of MySQL
Besides having many advantages, of course it also has some disadvantages. The following are some of the shortcomings in terms of features and usage.
1. Not Suitable for Developing Game and Mobile-Based Applications
For those of you who are developing applications to make games and mobile, we recommend not using MySQL. Because, the database management that is owned is not suitable for managing the application. It's easier to use a database server with a more real-time Cloud method.
2. Less Supportive Technical Support
Technical support which is owned by MySQL itself is considered less supportive. Because, it has not provided good support from a technical point of view. Thus, users have difficulty contacting technical support.
3. Less Support for Large Capacity Database Usage
Not suitable and not recommended for managing large databases. If you want a database server that can accommodate large amounts of data, then you can try using Big Data or BigQuery. Because, MySQL is devoted to being friendly with devices that have low specifications.
Conclusion
- MySQL is a type of DBMS that uses the SQL language to manage a structured database system. PHPMyAdmin is a feature to connect PHP with MySQL.
- The most important function of MySQL is to make it easier for users to access data in the form of Strings and can be accessed personally or publicly on the website.
- MySQL has advantages and disadvantages in terms of features and usage. So, use it for the needs of businesses or organizations that manage data with low capacity. If you need a database and a large number of tables, it is better to use a cloud database or Big Data.
