In the digital epoch where data reigns supreme, few names loom as large as MySQL. It stands as an indomitable force among relational database management systems, revered across industries for its blend of robustness and scalability. MySQL isn’t merely a software solution; it’s a crucial pillar underpinning innumerable applications, from humble blogs to complex enterprise architectures.

Over the years, MySQL has evolved into a linchpin technology for countless developers, data engineers, and systems architects. Whether it’s managing structured data, handling transactions, or supporting analytical workloads, MySQL brings to the table a level of dependability that has kept it relevant in a world constantly shifting toward novel technologies. It has become synonymous with flexibility, supporting myriad storage engines, optimizing resource utilization, and maintaining steadfast reliability.

The Genesis of MySQL and Its Stewardship

Originally developed by Swedish company MySQL AB, MySQL’s journey has traversed multiple milestones. Its open-source essence captured the imagination of developers worldwide. Oracle Corporation, recognizing the transformative power of this technology, acquired MySQL, ensuring continued innovation while maintaining its free and open nature. This stewardship has preserved MySQL’s widespread adoption, while also introducing refined features and enterprise support for those who demand it.

With Oracle at the helm, MySQL’s development has been meticulously nurtured, ensuring it keeps pace with modern demands for data security, transactional integrity, and performance. The dual existence of both free community editions and robust enterprise offerings ensures that businesses of all scales can harness its capabilities, making it a staple in diverse ecosystems.

Why MySQL Remains an Industry Titan

One might ponder: amidst the proliferation of database technologies—NoSQL options, cloud-native databases, and graph-oriented systems—why does MySQL persist as an industry giant? The reasons are manifold.

Firstly, MySQL’s architecture is lauded for its simplicity without sacrificing performance. Its capacity to handle both small-scale applications and massive data workloads makes it a versatile choice. For organizations that prioritize transactional consistency, its adherence to ACID principles delivers peace of mind.

Moreover, MySQL offers remarkable support for varied storage engines, each optimized for specific use cases. Whether one desires high-performance transactional storage through InnoDB or fast read operations through MEMORY storage, MySQL adapts seamlessly. This modular storage design sets MySQL apart, granting users the agency to tailor the database to their operational needs.

Lastly, the ubiquity of MySQL knowledge across the industry ensures that skilled professionals are always available to deploy, maintain, and optimize MySQL environments. Its command syntax has become nearly universal for database practitioners, a lingua franca for the world of relational data.

The Need for Simplified Installation on Windows

Given MySQL’s significance, its installation process should ideally be streamlined to avoid potential misconfigurations and technical obstacles. While seasoned professionals might relish a manual setup, the reality is that many users prefer a hassle-free installation, especially on Windows systems, which often serve as development environments or test servers.

Installing MySQL manually can involve configuring numerous parameters, managing dependencies like the Visual C++ Redistributable, and ensuring compatibility with Windows services. Without proper attention, subtle missteps can result in complications that impair MySQL Server’s stability or performance. Thus, a guided installation utility becomes indispensable.

Enter the MySQL Installer: The Ultimate Setup Companion

Recognizing these challenges, Oracle provides the MySQL Installer for Windows—a wizard-driven utility designed to alleviate the complexities of setting up MySQL and its various tools. It acts as a steward, orchestrating the installation journey, from downloading essential components to configuring core services.

The MySQL Installer is more than just a means to install the MySQL Server. It encompasses a suite of tools critical for working efficiently with MySQL. Users gain the ability to install MySQL Workbench, MySQL Shell, MySQL Router, connectors for various programming languages, and even documentation and samples that serve as a valuable learning reservoir.

Instead of scouring disparate downloads and manually adjusting configurations, users can simply launch the MySQL Installer and allow it to shepherd them through the process. This simplicity underscores Oracle’s commitment to user experience, catering not only to database veterans but also to newcomers eager to dive into database development.

Key Features Offered by MySQL Installer

At the heart of the MySQL Installer lies a rich tapestry of features designed to foster convenience and precision. One of its crowning advantages is component selection. Users can cherry-pick precisely what they wish to install, tailoring the environment to match project requirements.

Equally significant is its built-in dependency checker. MySQL relies on various system components like the .NET Framework and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables. The Installer identifies missing prerequisites, sparing users the burden of troubleshooting cryptic error messages post-installation.

Moreover, MySQL Installer facilitates seamless upgrades and removals. Should newer versions of MySQL Server or related tools emerge, users can easily initiate updates without unraveling their entire ecosystem. The Installer’s capacity to manage multiple product versions side-by-side further enhances its utility, ensuring legacy applications remain undisturbed while newer projects leverage cutting-edge advancements.

Why Windows Users Gravitate Towards MySQL Installer

Windows, by virtue of its extensive market presence, remains a popular platform for application development and testing. Many developers, even those destined to deploy applications on Linux servers, prefer crafting and debugging their database interactions on Windows due to its accessible interface and robust development tools.

However, installing server-grade software on Windows often invites additional hurdles. System services, environment variables, firewall configurations—these intricacies demand careful attention. MySQL Installer shields users from these potential pitfalls, transforming a potentially labyrinthine endeavor into a straightforward guided process.

Particularly beneficial is the Installer’s capacity to configure Windows services during the setup. Users can designate whether MySQL Server should launch automatically upon system startup, simplifying the operational routine for developers who require their database to be persistently available without manual intervention.

MySQL Server as the Core Installation Target

Among all components installed via the MySQL Installer, MySQL Server reigns supreme. It is the engine that drives data storage, retrieval, and manipulation. The Installer ensures that MySQL Server is properly registered as a Windows service, guaranteeing that it operates seamlessly within the Windows ecosystem.

MySQL Server’s performance hinges on meticulous configuration. Factors such as network settings, port assignments, and authentication modes influence not only its speed but also its security posture. The MySQL Installer helps navigate these decisions, offering default recommendations while still allowing customization for more nuanced requirements.

A Glimpse at Additional Tools: MySQL Workbench, Shell, and Router

Beyond MySQL Server, the Installer introduces several indispensable tools, each enriching the development and administration experience.

MySQL Workbench stands out as a graphical interface offering visual design capabilities, query execution, and performance monitoring. Developers find solace in its ability to craft complex schemas without drowning in manual SQL scripts. Its visual explain plans and data modeling features add a layer of clarity to otherwise abstruse database structures.

MySQL Shell, meanwhile, caters to those who seek a modern command-line interface. Supporting SQL, JavaScript, and Python, it empowers developers to script sophisticated tasks, manage clusters, and automate operations with elegance. Its integration with InnoDB Cluster operations further amplifies its value in high-availability environments.

MySQL Router serves a different purpose altogether. It acts as an intermediary, facilitating routing between applications and MySQL Servers. Particularly in load-balanced or high-availability architectures, the Router ensures applications maintain uninterrupted connectivity, even if the backend topology shifts dynamically.

Exploring Multi-User Access and Security Considerations

One of MySQL’s crowning glories is its robust multi-user capabilities. In enterprise contexts, data rarely resides in silos accessible by a single user. Teams, applications, and processes require simultaneous access. MySQL’s permission architecture allows precise definition of who can read, modify, or administer various data sets, ensuring that only authorized entities interact with sensitive information.

The Installer doesn’t merely deploy MySQL Server—it facilitates the creation of secure authentication mechanisms. Users can opt for traditional password-based login or integrate advanced authentication plugins, depending on their environment’s security mandates. Configuring these elements during installation establishes a solid foundation for safe, compliant data operations.

The Underlying Philosophy of Simplification

At its core, the MySQL Installer embodies a philosophy of simplification. While databases are innately complex entities, their installation and initial configuration need not be an ordeal. The Installer abstracts away the drudgery, enabling users to focus on higher-order goals: designing efficient schemas, optimizing queries, and building resilient applications.

This notion aligns with modern software paradigms favoring user-friendly experiences. Even in the enterprise domain, where sophistication abounds, administrators appreciate tools that reduce the cognitive burden of repetitive tasks. The MySQL Installer’s meticulous attention to usability reflects an understanding of these contemporary expectations.

Anticipating the MySQL Installation Journey

Understanding what MySQL Installer brings to the table is crucial before embarking on the installation journey. Knowing that this utility exists to ease the process and that it offers a rich set of features sets the stage for a smoother experience.

MySQL’s continued prevalence hinges on its adaptability and the support mechanisms that orbit it. The Installer encapsulates that ethos, bridging the gap between raw software and user-friendly deployment. Whether one is a fledgling developer or a seasoned enterprise architect, mastering the MySQL Installer becomes an invaluable skill in the modern data landscape.

Setting the Stage for Success

Before diving headfirst into the installation of MySQL via the MySQL Installer, it’s crucial to ensure your Windows environment is primed and ready. A successful installation isn’t simply about running a setup file; it’s about creating an environment where MySQL Server and its companion tools can operate flawlessly.

This preparatory stage helps avoid the frustration of cryptic errors, installation failures, or performance hiccups that might appear later down the road. Whether deploying MySQL for a small personal project or integrating it into a corporate environment, taking time to prepare your system pays enormous dividends.

Understanding Windows as an Environment for MySQL

Windows stands as one of the world’s most widely used operating systems, not only for end users but also for developers. Many organizations deploy Windows as their primary OS for development machines, test servers, and even production environments in some scenarios.

Unlike UNIX-based systems, where server applications often assume certain file system structures or privileges, Windows has its unique way of handling services, security policies, and system resources. This difference underscores the importance of aligning Windows settings and prerequisites with MySQL’s operational requirements.

Hardware Considerations

The hardware on which you install MySQL directly influences its performance and stability. While MySQL is renowned for its modest resource requirements, modern use cases often push databases to handle significant workloads.

Processor

MySQL performs efficiently on a variety of processor architectures. Still, multi-core CPUs deliver significant benefits, especially in multi-user or high-concurrency environments. While basic installations might survive on dual-core processors, quad-core or higher ensures greater responsiveness and throughput.

Memory

Memory is one of the most critical resources for MySQL. The more RAM available, the more effectively MySQL can cache data and reduce disk I/O. While the absolute minimum sits around 4 GB for basic installations, developers aiming for smoother performance should target 8 GB or more, especially if planning to run additional tools like MySQL Workbench concurrently.

Storage

MySQL installations can reside comfortably on moderate disk space if handling small datasets. However, applications dealing with large tables, binary logs, or complex transactions benefit from generous disk allocations and high-speed storage such as SSDs. Performance differences between mechanical drives and solid-state drives can be stark, especially under heavy read/write operations.

Operating System Compatibility

MySQL Installer supports numerous versions of Windows. However, the latest versions of MySQL often drop support for older operating systems. Running on an outdated OS not only jeopardizes compatibility but also introduces significant security risks.

It’s strongly advised to install MySQL on:

• Windows 10
• Windows 11
• Windows Server 2019
• Windows Server 2022

These systems receive consistent updates from Microsoft, ensuring improved security and performance. Avoid attempting installations on deprecated versions like Windows 7 or older Windows Server editions, as newer MySQL versions may refuse to install or function correctly.

Software Prerequisites

Beyond hardware and OS considerations, several software components must exist or be installed to ensure MySQL operates properly.

Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

MySQL depends on certain runtime libraries provided by the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. The specific version required varies depending on the MySQL release, but MySQL Installer typically demands:

• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2019 (or newer)

If absent, MySQL Installer attempts to download and install these components automatically. However, in locked-down environments where outbound internet connections are restricted, administrators may need to manually pre-install these redistributables.

Microsoft .NET Framework

Certain elements of MySQL Installer rely on the .NET Framework. For modern installations, the minimum required version is:

• Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5.2

On recent Windows versions, .NET Framework is often pre-installed. However, users running custom or stripped-down installations of Windows may need to verify its presence.

Ensuring Sufficient Disk Space

Though the base MySQL Server installation is modest, installing additional tools significantly increases disk usage. MySQL Workbench, documentation files, connectors, and sample databases collectively occupy more storage than the server alone.

A safe baseline for a “full” installation via MySQL Installer lies between:

• 2 GB – 3 GB of available disk space

It’s prudent to allocate more if planning to store significant data, logs, or backups on the same drive as the installation.

Verifying System Locale and Character Sets

MySQL, by design, accommodates diverse character sets and collations. However, certain edge cases arise when Windows installations employ non-standard system locales. While MySQL generally handles multilingual environments well, it’s advisable to ensure:

• The Windows system locale supports UTF-8 encoding or your target language character sets
• File paths do not include unusual or non-standard characters that might trip up installers or services

Establishing a consistent locale environment minimizes unexpected behavior during installation and usage.

Administrative Privileges and UAC

Installing server software on Windows nearly always requires administrative privileges. MySQL Installer needs to:

• Register services
• Modify environment variables
• Write to protected directories
• Access system-level configuration settings

Without administrative access, the installation will likely fail. Additionally, Windows User Account Control (UAC) can interfere if not acknowledged. It’s best practice to:

• Run the MySQL Installer executable explicitly as an Administrator
• Approve any UAC prompts that appear during installation

This ensures all necessary actions complete without security blockades.

Configuring Windows Firewall for MySQL

By default, Windows Firewall may block traffic on MySQL’s default port (3306) or other custom ports defined during installation. For developers planning to connect remotely or for applications that operate across machines, it’s vital to establish appropriate firewall rules.

Steps to consider include:

• Allow inbound traffic on the selected MySQL port
• Limit access to trusted networks only, rather than opening MySQL broadly to the internet
• Create specific firewall rules for both private and public networks depending on usage scenarios

Proper firewall configuration balances security and accessibility, protecting the server without preventing legitimate connections.

Considering Antivirus and Security Suites

Modern antivirus or endpoint security solutions sometimes block or interfere with service installations. MySQL’s installer writes binaries, launches services, and modifies system settings—all activities that certain security software might flag as suspicious.

Developers should:

• Temporarily disable real-time scanning during installation (if safe to do so)
• Add MySQL directories to antivirus exclusions post-installation
• Monitor logs to ensure security software does not silently quarantine essential MySQL executables

Neglecting these precautions might result in incomplete installations or runtime errors that are difficult to diagnose.

Planning the Installation Path

The MySQL Installer permits users to customize the installation path. However, certain scenarios justify customizing this path:

• Machines with limited space on the system drive
• Environments requiring separation of software and data directories for backup or security reasons
• Systems employing policies that forbid installations in the Program Files directory

Whatever the choice, consistency in path conventions simplifies future maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting.

Deciding Between Web vs. Full Installer

When downloading MySQL Installer, users encounter two distinct options:

• Web Installer: A compact file that downloads only the necessary components during installation. Ideal for environments with robust internet connectivity.
• Full Installer: A significantly larger file (~400 MB or more) that contains all installable components. Suitable for offline installations or bandwidth-constrained environments.

Choosing between these options hinges on:

• Internet reliability
• Organizational security policies (e.g., air-gapped networks)
• Desire for convenience over initial download size

Both installers ultimately offer identical capabilities once installation begins.

Preparing for Authentication Strategy

Modern versions of MySQL Server offer multiple authentication plugins. Some enterprise environments require:

• Native password-based authentication
• Windows-native authentication
• Strong password policies

Knowing organizational requirements in advance ensures smoother configuration during the installer’s authentication steps. Decisions made during installation influence how applications and users will connect later.

Establishing a Backup Plan

Though it might sound premature, it’s wise to plan for data backups even before the first installation. Whether setting up a test environment or a future production database, consider:

• Where backups will be stored
• How much storage to reserve for backups
• Whether the backups should reside on local disks or external/cloud systems
• Scheduling regular backup routines

Laying this groundwork early helps avoid chaos when data becomes critical.

Gathering Necessary Information for Installation

Installation flows more smoothly when armed with certain information ahead of time:

• Desired root password
• Port number for MySQL Server (default is 3306)
• Network configurations if connecting across machines
• Desired service name (for distinguishing multiple installations)
• Any custom configuration parameters

Having these details handy reduces interruptions during the Installer’s prompts.

Recognizing Environmental Constraints

Different environments impose unique constraints:

• Development laptops may have limited resources and firewall flexibility.
• Production servers may demand strict change control, security audits, and documentation.
• Corporate networks might restrict downloads from external servers.

Tailoring preparations to your specific environment ensures that the MySQL Installer doesn’t encounter avoidable obstacles.

Testing the System Before Installation

Running a basic system health check before installation can save hours later. Consider:

• Checking disk health (e.g., no bad sectors)
• Verifying that the Windows event log shows no critical errors
• Confirming internet access if using the web installer
• Running Windows Update to ensure all OS patches are current

Healthy systems host healthy installations. Skipping this step might introduce subtle problems later, complicating troubleshooting efforts.

How to Install MySQL on Windows with MySQL Installer

So your system’s ready, your prerequisites are in place, and now it’s time for the real action: installing MySQL on Windows. Whether you’re setting it up for coding projects, learning SQL, or prepping a production machine, the MySQL Installer streamlines the entire process.

Let’s break it down step by step so there’s no guesswork.

Step 1: Download the MySQL Installer

First stop: the official MySQL website.

1. Head over to MySQl website
2. Pick your Windows operating system from the dropdown list.
3. You’ll see two options:
   • Web Installer (smaller size, downloads components during install)
   • Full Installer (a ~400 MB file with everything bundled)

If your internet connection is solid, go with the Web Installer. For offline setups or slow internet, grab the Full Installer.

After downloading, you’ll have an .msi file ready to launch.

Step 2: Launch the Installer

• Double-click the .msi file you downloaded.
• Windows might flash a security pop-up. Click Yes to let it run.
• The MySQL Installer window fires up.

Step 3: Accept the License

You’ll hit the license agreement screen. Check the box to agree to Oracle’s license terms and click Next. Simple.

Step 4: Choose a Setup Type

Now it gets interesting. The installer asks what kind of setup you want:

• Developer Default – Installs MySQL Server plus useful tools like Workbench, Shell, etc. Great if you’re coding or testing.
• Server Only – Just the MySQL Server, nothing else.
• Client Only – Tools without the server itself.
• Full – EVERYTHING: server, tools, connectors, docs, samples.
• Custom – Pick exactly what you want.

If you’re unsure, Developer Default is a solid choice. Hit Next to continue.

Step 5: Check Requirements

The installer will scan your machine to check for missing prerequisites like:

• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
• .NET Framework

If something’s missing, the installer might try downloading and installing it for you. Or it might ask you to fix it manually.

• If all is good, click Next.
• If not, either fix the issues or click Next anyway and deal with them later. Skipping isn’t always a dealbreaker, but best practice is to fix it now.

Step 6: Ready to Install

Next, you’ll see a summary of what’s about to be installed. The list might include:

• MySQL Server
• MySQL Workbench
• MySQL Shell
• Documentation
• Connectors
• Examples/Samples

Click Execute to start downloading and installing the selected products. This might take a while depending on your internet speed and machine performance.

Watch the progress bars and wait for everything to turn green. Once complete, click Next.

Step 7: Configure MySQL Server

Now it’s time to set up MySQL Server so it actually runs.

The installer guides you through several configuration pages:

Server Configuration Type

Choose how you want your server to operate:

• Standalone MySQL Server / Classic MySQL Replication – Perfect for single-server setups or simple replication.
• InnoDB Cluster – More advanced, for high-availability clusters.

Most people stick with Standalone MySQL Server. Click Next.

Type and Networking

• Select Config Type:
  • Development Machine – Lower memory usage.
  • Server Machine – Medium resource usage.
  • Dedicated Machine – Maximum performance.
• Leave the default port (3306) unless you have a reason to change it.

If you have a firewall, make sure it allows traffic through the port you pick.

Click Next.

Authentication Method

You’ll see two options:

• Use Strong Password Encryption (recommended)
• Legacy Authentication Method (Retain MySQL 5.x compatibility)

For most users, stick with strong encryption. Click Next.

Root Account Password

• Enter a secure password for the MySQL root user.
• Confirm it in the second box.
• Write it down or store it in a password manager. Losing it = headache.

Click Next.

Add MySQL User Accounts (Optional)

You can create additional MySQL users now. If you’re just testing things out, skip this for later. Click Next.

Windows Service

Decide how MySQL Server runs:

• Configure MySQL Server as a Windows Service
• Choose the Windows Service Name (usually MySQL80 for MySQL 8.0)
• Decide if you want the server to start automatically with Windows boot.

Leaving defaults is fine unless you have special requirements. Click Next.

Apply Configuration

Click Execute to apply all your chosen settings. This step:

• Initializes the MySQL data directory
• Sets the root password
• Registers the MySQL Windows service
• Starts the MySQL server

Once it finishes, click Finish.

Step 8: Configure MySQL Router (Optional)

If you selected MySQL Router, you’ll be prompted to configure it now. For many single-machine installs, you can skip this.

Click Finish to continue.

Step 9: Connect to Server

Now comes the moment of truth: testing your server connection.

• Enter the root password you created earlier.
• Click Check.

If you see a green checkmark, you’re golden. Click Next.

Step 10: Apply Any Remaining Configurations

MySQL Installer might show additional configuration steps or settings, depending on what you installed. Follow the prompts, hit Execute where required, and then click Finish.

Step 11: Wrap Up

When you hit Finish, you’re officially done. MySQL is installed, running as a Windows service, and ready for action.

Here’s what you can do next:

• Launch MySQL Workbench for a visual UI to manage databases.
• Open MySQL Shell for command-line power.
• Connect your apps to MySQL Server using your preferred language and connector.

Step 12: Verify Installation

One quick way to confirm MySQL is running:

1. Open MySQL Shell.
2. Connect with your root user

3. Enter your password when prompted.
4. Run a quick test

If you see the list of default databases like mysql, information_schema, etc., you’re good to go.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Error: Missing Visual C++ Redistributable

• Download it manually from Microsoft’s website.
• Install and retry MySQL Installer.

Can’t Connect to MySQL

• Check your firewall rules.
• Verify the MySQL Windows service is running.
• Double-check your port number and root password.

Installer Hangs

• Close and restart the installer.
• Ensure no other software (like antivirus) is blocking changes.

And That’s It!

Installing MySQL on Windows might look intense at first glance, but MySQL Installer simplifies it big time. Whether you’re building a dev environment or deploying databases for a company, you now have a fully functioning MySQL setup at your fingertips.

Getting Started with MySQL After Installation

Awesome — you’ve installed MySQL. Now it’s time to actually use it. Here’s how to get rolling without diving into code just yet.

How to Log In

There are two main ways to open MySQL and start working with it:

MySQL Shell (the command-line tool)
MySQL Workbench (the graphical tool)

• MySQL Shell is where you type commands into a text window. It’s fast and powerful if you’re comfortable typing commands.
• MySQL Workbench is the user-friendly option. It’s a windowed program where you can click through menus and panels to manage your databases.

To log in, just open either tool and enter your username and password (you probably set this up as “root” during install).

What You Can Do Once You’re Logged In

Here’s what people usually do first:

Create Databases

Think of a database like a folder to organize related data. For example, you might create one for your website or app.

Make Tables

Inside each database, you create tables. Tables are like spreadsheets with rows and columns where your data lives. For example:

• A table for users
• A table for products
• A table for orders

Each table has columns to describe the kind of data it holds (like names, dates, prices, etc.).

Add Data

Once your tables exist, you can start putting in your data — like adding rows to a spreadsheet.

View Your Data

You can look at what’s stored in your tables to make sure everything is correct. You can filter to see only certain rows or columns based on your needs.

Update or Delete Data

Made a typo? No problem. You can edit existing data or remove records you don’t want anymore.

Connecting MySQL to Other Apps

Most people install MySQL so they can connect it to software like:

• Websites built with PHP, Python, Node.js, or Java
• Data analysis tools
• Desktop or mobile apps

Each programming language or tool has its own way to connect to MySQL. Once connected, your app can store, search, and update data in your database automatically.

Security Basics

A few simple rules keep your database safe:

• Don’t leave your “root” account password blank.
• Create separate user accounts for each app or person who needs access.
• Only give each user the minimum permissions they truly need.

For example, an app that only reads data doesn’t need permission to delete things.

Managing the MySQL Service

On Windows, MySQL runs as a background service. You might need to restart it occasionally (like if you change configurations). You can:

• Use the Windows Services app to start, stop, or restart MySQL.
• Or run commands in PowerShell if you’re comfortable with that.

Uninstalling MySQL

If you ever want to uninstall MySQL:

1. Open your Windows Control Panel.
2. Find MySQL in the list of installed programs.
3. Click “Uninstall.”
4. Clean up leftover folders on your computer if needed.

You’re Ready to Explore!

And that’s it for getting started after installation. Now you know how to:

• Log into MySQL
• Create databases and tables
• Manage and explore your data
• Connect MySQL to apps
• Keep things secure

From here, you can dive deeper into learning SQL or building apps that use MySQL as their data backbone.

Go build cool stuff!