With the Web extending into every nook and cranny of modern life, there are plenty of folks out there who have data storage issues that need to be addressed-Qbut no million-dollar budgets to do so. Luckily for them, there's MySQL. Offering Oracle-like power without the huge price tag, MySQL offers a networked database that can be accessed in numerous ways-Qall of which are described in this invaluable reference. In the clear, concise language readers have come to expect from this popular series, this Visual QuickStart Guide demonstrates how to interact with MySQL--both directly and through various popular programming languages (for example, PHP, Perl, and Java). Step-by-step instructions, practical examples, plenty of screen shots, and loads of useful tips and tricks make learning MySQL a breeze, even for novice programmers. Focusing first on the underlying conceptsQWhat are databases? What is MySQL?--author Larry Ullman then proceeds through installation, administration, database design, and more before tackling MySQL's use with various programming languages, database programming techniques, and utilities. Web developers, system administrators, programmers, and just about anybody who uses databases will find themselves turning again and again to this essential guide.