Understand the Differences – MySQL vs. SQL
The comparison between MySQL vs. SQL isn’t really a comparison at all. MySQL supports the computer language SQL. However, many other databases support using SQL.
What is SQL?
SQL or Structured Query Language is a special-purpose programming language that was created to help manage data held in the data management system. It was one of the first commercial languages created of this type and originally was used by large banks. However, now, it’s mainly used for online websites, blogs, content management systems and photo galleries.
What is MySQL?
MySQL is one of the most widely used relational database management systems in the world. It’s an open source system available under the GNU General Public License and many different proprietary agreements. It’s a very popular choice for database in web applications and is a part of the most popular content management system online, WordPress.
What do You Really Need to Know About MySQL vs. SQL?
Unless you plan to do your own coding or you are an advanced user, all you really need to understand about MySQL vs. SQL, is that MySQL uses SQL. However, it’s also important to know that SQL is used by other choices for database management, such as PostgreSQL.
Most webmasters and bloggers use MySQL because they use WordPress, Joomla or Drupal. All three of these powerful CMS choices use MySQL for their database management.
The MySQL database is where all your information is stored, such as posts, web pages and visitors’ comments. Often, webmasters will back the database up regularly and use it to move content from one host to another or from one domain to another.
For most webmasters, learning about SQL or MySQL isn’t very important. It will be automatically used when you install the CMS of your choice. As long as you understand how to use the CMS you choose, you won’t need to do much of anything with the MySQL database.
The MySQL database is like the engine of the car and provides the power you need to run your website/blog. However, you don’t have to understand how to build an engine to drive a car and you don’t need to understand the MySQL database or what SQL is to run a blog.
However, if you’re a computer programmer or you plan to write your own code, understanding how to access the MySQL or other SQL database is very important. You will also need to understand how to move this type of database from one place to another. Of course, if you you’re a computer programmer, you probably already know how to do this.
When Will You Need to Access the MySQL or Other SQL Database?
Webmasters and bloggers may need to access the MySQL or SQL database in two specific circumstances: if you need to install it on a new domain or host and if you need to rebuild your website/blog due to a hacker attack or virus.
The most common time a webmaster needs to access the MySQL database is when they sell a website or move from one host to another. Of course, you still don’t have to access it because you can pay your new hosting company or a programmer to move it for you. Some hosting companies will help you move all your MySQL or other SQL databases free of charge.
Are You Looking for a New Hosting Company?
If you’re switching hosting companies and concerned you won’t move the MySQL databases properly, you need a hosting company willing to help you with this. At ITX Design, we provide free website and domain transfer for all new accounts. Just choose from shared, VPS or dedicated server hosting and let us know what you need moved. Our team of expert technicians will do all the heavy lifting for you.
When you know it’s time to move to a better hosting company, you need one that will help you move the MySQL or other SQL databases free of charge. This will save you the hassle of having to learn the differences between MySQL vs. SQL and how they work. If you have any questions about our hosting or about your databases, contact our support today.
