text: what is mysql? what is mysql? what is it used for? is it complicated? help! mysql is a popular open source sql (structured query language) database implementation, available for many platforms, including windows, unix/linux and mac os x.  mysql is a relational database management system, which means it stores data in separate tables rather than putting all the data in one big area. this adds flexibility, as well as speed. the sql part of mysql stands for "structured query language," which is the most common language used to access databases. the mysql database server is the most popular open source database in the world. it is extremely fast and easy to customize, due to its architecture. extensive reuse of code within the software, along with a minimalist approach to producing features with lots of functionality, gives mysql unmatched speed, compactness, stability, and ease of deployment. their unique separation of the core server from the storage engine makes it possible to run with very strict control, or with ultra fast disk access, whichever is more appropriate for the situation.