Chapter 14. Learning Database Administration and Design
MySQL is one of the easiest databases to administer on all platforms, and because it's so lightweight, it can run on even low-powered PCs. Thus, PHP developers have long found it convenient to throw a copy of MySQL on client machines — even on laptops — for a complete local web development environment. Many developers learn to run their own MySQL installations so that they can work at home or on the road, using the OS of their choice. Work teams also sometimes prefer developers to each use a separate local MySQL installation, so that there is no single point of failure that could affect an entire development group. And many PHP-based open source projects assume complete familiarity with MySQL database administration for all developers.
Unlike some other databases, it should be well within the capability of any PHP developer to self-administer a MySQL database. There is a plethora of tools, both in MySQL itself and available from third parties, to make this job even easier. Many PHP-based application packages, both commercial and open source, also require familiarity with a MySQL database to install, run, and debug the web app. So even if you don't plan to write all your PHP code yourself, getting comfortable with MySQL administration will pay many dividends.
Basic MySQL Client Commands
It may surprise you to know that the binary named mysql in your mysql/bin directory ...
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