MySQL is a free database solution that is part of a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP) setup. It provides the dynamic data for a cloud application.
The technology is free along with the tools used to create and manage the database server. For every new business, a new database is required to get started with the cloud application. For users new to MySQL, the Workbench software makes it much easier to create a database without finding the right commands in the MySQL documentation.
MySQL versus MSSQL
Some terms are different for programmers more familiar with the MSSQL database layout. For programmers used to Microsoft SQL Server, the terms confuse experienced MSSQL database programmers. For this reason, new MySQL Workbench users might find it hard to find the tools necessary to create a new database.
In MySQL, the term schema is used interchangeably for the common MSSQL term database. When the programmer creates a new database, the MySQL system calls it a schema. Both of these terms are interchangeable, but programmers used to other database platforms may get confused.
Creating a New MySQL Schema
Open the MySQL Workbench software, which is found in the MySQL program group in the Windows Start menu. After the software opens, the bottom left corner has a New Connection section. Click this option to connect to the MySQL cloud server. The cloud host provides the business with a username and password for the server connection. After the connection is made, the new schema can be created.
In the connection window, click the + button to create a new schema. MySQL includes a default template, which is sufficient for new database catalogs. The schema becomes a part of a catalog, which is analogous to the main server in a MSSQL setup. The business can have several schemas within a catalog. For instance, a business can have a websitea schema and a websiteb schema within one catalog. The catalog represents the business as a whole, and the schemas represent each part of the business.
Adding Tables to the Schema
With the schema created, the programmer can add tables, which are the basic unit for data storage. All of the available MySQL objects are shown in the schema tab in the Workbench window. Click Add Table to create a new table.
In the New Table window, add the columns and table name. For instance, a customer table contains a firstname and lastname column along with any other identifying information the business needs to collect from the customer.
Each cloud application property uses a table, and it is up to the programmer to design and identify the tables required for the application. Once the database is created, the tables grow with the business and the business requirements. Always back-up the database to secure information in case of a server failure, and secure the connection username and password to the database.
Jennifer Marsh is a software developer, programmer and technology writer and occasionally blogs for Rackspace Hosting