MySQL Installation and Configuration

Summary

In this chapter, we’ve covered the wide spectrum of installation options for MySQL. These vary from simple, no-configure binary package installations to the complexity of building from source and digging into varying levels of configuration files and option details. MySQL AB places a great deal of emphasis on creating what the users of the database need, and attempts to provide an installation process for the novice or small-scale user, all the way to the expert, large-scale-deployment user.

Once you’ve installed MySQL, there are a number of post-installation steps to consider in making sure the database is set up to run smoothly. Part of this may include switching to another prebuilt configuration file, and possibly editing your configuration to make the database behave and perform to your needs. Becoming familiar with all the configuration options for MySQL is a daunting task, but as you learn how to tweak the settings, you can create a set of options that make your server and tools hum along in perfect harmony with the needs of your organization.

As you watch development move forward and new releases become available, you’ll want to review the steps for upgrading your MySQL installation.