New Page  |  Edit Page

What is MySQL?

MySQL is the most popular, most used, open-source relational database management system. MySQL can be used with every programming language. It is the world’s most popular open source Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) that uses Structured Query Language (SQL). With its simplicity, performance, reliability and ease-of-use, MySQL has become the first database choice for most of web-based applications.

Storage Engines

The following MySQL Table Types, or Storage Engines are used in MySQL.

  • MyISAM
  • InnoDB
  • NDB
  • Merge
  • FEDERATED
  • CSV
  • Archive
  • Blackhole
  • Example

InnoDB and MyISAM are the most commonly used MySQL storage engines. InnoDB is the default storage engine chosen by MySQL when creating a new table. The major differences between these two storage engines are:

  • InnoDB supports transactions which is not supported by tables which use MyISAM storage engine.
  • InnoDB has row-level locking, relational integrity supports foreign keys, which is not possible in MyISAM.
  • InnoDB performance for high volume data cannot be beaten by any other storage engines available.

The tables created in MyISAM are believed to have a higher speed compared to tables in InnoDB. As InnoDB supports volume, transactions and integrity, it is the better option with a larger database.