What Is MySQL? How WordPress Uses MySQL?

Understanding WordPress’s Data Storage: A Guide to MySQL

WordPress relies on MySQL, a robust system for managing databases, to organize and access the content of your blog. Imagine MySQL as the digital equivalent of a filing system for your site’s data, often referred to as ‘my sequel’.

This database software is a product of Oracle Corporation and is freely accessible as open-source under the GPL license.

Even if you’re not familiar with MySQL, you can still use WordPress effectively. However, a fundamental grasp of MySQL can be invaluable when it comes to solving issues on your WordPress website.

Decoding the Digital Filing System

At its core, MySQL is a relational database management system, adept at managing extensive data for multiple users. It operates as a server and is typically installed on your WordPress hosting server.

Consider it your website’s virtual organizer, where all data is neatly stored and categorized.

Data manipulation within these databases is executed using SQL, or Structured Query Language. When data is fetched using SQL, it’s referred to as a query.

An example of a MySQL query is as follows: