MariaDB vs. MySQL: Understanding the Differences and Installation Guide for Windows and Linux

On By bitwise

MariaDB and MySQL are both popular open-source relational database management systems (RDBMS) that originated from the same codebase. While they share many similarities, they also have some differences, mainly due to their development paths and unique features. In this article, we will delve into the distinctions between MariaDB and MySQL and provide step-by-step installation guides for both Windows and Linux operating systems.

MariaDB vs. MySQL: Key Differences

  1. Development and Ownership:
  • MySQL was originally developed by MySQL AB, which was later acquired by Sun Microsystems and then by Oracle Corporation.
  • MariaDB was created by the original developers of MySQL after concerns arose about the acquisition by Oracle. It is now developed by the MariaDB Foundation, a non-profit organization.
  1. Licensing:
  • MySQL is dual-licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL) for open-source use and a commercial license for proprietary use.
  • MariaDB is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), making it entirely open-source.
  1. Community Contributions:
  • MariaDB tends to be more community-driven, with a faster pace of development and more frequent releases.
  • MySQL development is primarily driven by Oracle, which may result in a slower release cycle and more emphasis on commercial offerings.
  1. Storage Engines:
  • Both MariaDB and MySQL support multiple storage engines. However, MariaDB has introduced some additional engines like Aria, XtraDB (InnoDB variant), and MyRocks, which offer unique benefits over MySQL.
  1. Features and Performance:
  • MariaDB often includes additional features, bug fixes, and performance improvements not found in MySQL.
  • MySQL may emphasize enterprise-oriented features and support through commercial offerings.
  1. Compatibility:
  • MariaDB aims to be a drop-in replacement for MySQL, ensuring that most applications and tools designed for MySQL will work seamlessly with MariaDB.
  • MySQL may occasionally have features or syntax that are not supported in MariaDB.

Installing MariaDB and MySQL on Windows

Step 1: Download the Installer

  • For MariaDB: Visit the MariaDB Downloads page and select the appropriate version for Windows. Download the installer and save it to your local drive.
  • For MySQL: Visit the MySQL Community Downloads page and select the appropriate version for Windows. Download the installer and save it to your local drive.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  • For MariaDB: Double-click the downloaded installer and follow the installation wizard’s instructions. During installation, you will be prompted to set a root password and configure other options.
  • For MySQL: Double-click the downloaded installer and follow the installation wizard’s instructions. During installation, you will be prompted to set a root password and configure other options.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

  • For both MariaDB and MySQL, open the command prompt or terminal and run the following command to verify the installation:
mysql -V

You should see the version number of the installed MySQL/MariaDB server if the installation was successful.

Installing MariaDB and MySQL on Linux

Step 1: Update Package Lists

sudo apt-get update

Step 2: Install MariaDB or MySQL

  • For MariaDB:
sudo apt-get install mariadb-server
  • For MySQL:
sudo apt-get install mysql-server

During the installation, you will be prompted to set a root password and configure other options.

Step 3: Start and Enable the Database Server

For both MariaDB and MySQL, run the following commands to start and enable the database server to start at boot:

sudo systemctl start mariadb  # or mysql for MySQL
sudo systemctl enable mariadb  # or mysql for MySQL

Step 4: Secure the Installation (Optional)

For both MariaDB and MySQL, run the following command to secure the installation and set a root password:

sudo mysql_secure_installation

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the security setup.

Conclusion

MariaDB and MySQL are excellent RDBMS options, each with its unique features and strengths. The decision to choose one over the other largely depends on your specific requirements and preferences. By understanding their differences and following the installation guides provided, you can efficiently deploy either MariaDB or MySQL on your Windows or Linux system to power your applications and websites.