MySQL is the open source database management system developed, distributed and managed by the company MySQLAB. This DBMS was introduced with the aim of reducing high expenditure of deploying and managing databases.

MySQL is an open source software, which means anybody can use the software by downloading it from the Internet without paying anything. Users may view the source code of the software and may change it according to their requirements. However, the users have to buy the commercially licensed version of the software from the company.

Unlike the traditional DBMS, MySQL is simple and cost-effective software. MySQL server has the practical set of features developed in close cooperation with the users. Today, it offers a rich and useful set of functions. Its connectivity, speed and security make MySQL the highly suited DBMS on the Internet.

MySQL works on client-server architecture. It consists of multithreaded SQL server that supports a number of back-ends, client programs, libraries, administrative tools and a large range of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).

To speak about security, MySQL provides ultimate security to its users. While downloading from the Internet, the software comes with some unnecessary features. However, these can easily be disabled to enhance the security level of this DBMS. MySQL provides two level of security, once when the server is connected with the application and the next when any query is issued. Though it is an open source database, MySQL can fully secure online transactions, credit card details etc.