MySQL is one of the must used online databases in the world at the moment. It offers almost everything that the expensive databases, such as Oracle, just at a fraction of the price. There are two versions, a free version, open source version, and the commercial version, which are both highly beneficial to any online company.  As a user, we are able to use MySQL in a variety of helpful and interesting ways.

A database as powerful as MySQL is easily capable of storing any sort of textual information on a database, in a series of tables. The MySQL database can be used for a vast set of online applications, ranging from professional quality forums, to the open source variety. MySQL is the choice of database for an increasing number of professional companies. Companies such as: AdventNet, Alcatel, Aprisma, Atchik, Cox Communications, F5 Networks, Matanuska Telephone Association, Onlinetel, Siemens, Tekelec and many others. They are all relying on the open source mySQL for their entire website, each of these websites put their servers under a tremendous strain, and MySQL functions under these conditions brilliantly.

Editing any MySQL database is incredibly easy also. There are many online applications, that are also open source, for your web host to install onto the server, so each user is able to easily and safely edit their databases, without any need for complex scripts or shutting down a website for a matter of days or minutes.

As many major telecommunication companies are using MySQL, it has meant that almost all major web hosts have adopted MySQL into their most standard packages. So all users, from global empires to a website dedicated to a singular artist can have the same quality of database software, generally for free. With a simple and easy to learn coding system, MySQL is easily customisable to each individuals taste; it can store any quantity of data from the users, and still work fast and effectively. Rendering the need for other databases for a single user, almost, extinct.