MySQL is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that is widely used for managing and organizing structured data. It is known for its speed, reliability, and ease of use, making it a popular choice for web applications, enterprise systems, and cloud-based solutions.

Developed by Oracle Corporation, MySQL uses Structured Query Language (SQL) to perform operations such as data retrieval, insertion, updating, and deletion. It follows a client-server architecture, enabling multiple users to access and manage databases efficiently.

Key Features of MySQL:

Open-Source & Cross-Platform – Runs on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Scalability – Supports small applications to large-scale enterprise solutions.

High Performance – Optimized for fast data access and transactions.

Security – Provides strong authentication, data encryption, and user access control.

Multi-User Support – Allows multiple users to work on the same database concurrently.

Replication & Backup – Supports database replication and backup strategies for data integrity.

MySQL is commonly used in web development, working alongside technologies like PHP, Java, and Python, and is a core component of the LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP).