Advantages and disadvantages of using MySQL Vs MS SQL

Two of the most popular database systems used by web developers today are MySQL and Microsoft’s MS SQL server. Both are similar when it comes to being storage and retrieval systems. Both systems support primary keys, along with key indexes that allow you to speed up queries and restrict entry. Also, both systems offer some form of XML support.

Aside from the price, which is the obvious difference, what sets these two systems apart and which one is right for you? We will review both products, point out the main differences, and explain the advantages and disadvantages of using them for your business.

Open source vs. Property

When it comes to these two databases, the differences start with the open source nature of MySQL vs. the closed and proprietary structure of SQL Server. MySQL is an open and extensible storage database engine, offering multiple variations such as Berkeley DB, InnoDB, Heap, and MyISAM. On the other hand, with Microsoft’s product, you’re limited to a Sybase-derived engine through good times and bad.

When considering how MySQL integrates seamlessly with various programming languages ​​and other web-based technologies, it certainly has the advantage over MS SQL in terms of compatibility, as SQL Server is known to work better with other Microsoft products.

License

Contrary to popular belief, the MySQL system is not always free. On the other hand, it is always more affordable. For both products, the license fees are based on a two-tier scheme. With MS SQL, the best way to get a developer license is to purchase a license for the Microsoft Developer or Microsoft Visual Studio package. Both provide you with a free license of SQL Server for development use. If you want to use the product in a commercial environment, you must purchase at least SQL Server Standard Edition, which could cost you more than $ 1,000 for some client connections.

Because MySQL is an open source system under the GNU General Public License, developers can use it at no cost, as long as the associated projects are also open source. However, if you intend to sell your software as a proprietary product, you will need to purchase a commercial license, which costs around $ 400 for up to nine clients. Depending on the project and its funds, MySQL may have the upper hand here.

Technical differences

Open source vs. The battle for ownership alone is one of the main reasons why some users choose one system over the other. However, there are also some differences from a technical point of view.

For example, MySQL does not offer full foreign key support, which means that it does not have all the relational features of MS SQL, which is considered a full relational database. Some versions of MySQL also lack full support for stored procedures; the biggest disadvantage is the MyISAM system, which does not support transactions.

Performance

In terms of performance, MySQL is the undisputed leader, mainly due to the format of its default table, MyISAM. MyISAM databases leave a small footprint with little disk space, memory, and CPU. While the system runs on the Windows platform without any glitches, it tends to perform better on Linux and other UNIX-like systems. Due to its stability, many Internet powerhouses such as Yahoo! use MySQL as your backend database.

When it comes to performance, MS SQL’s strength of being packed with more features than other systems is perhaps its biggest drawback. Although most of these features are designed to fine-tune performance, they tend to sacrifice other essentials. The cost here is complexity and resource grabbing in the form of storage and memory, leading to poorer performance. If you do not have the knowledge and hardware to support an SQL server, it would be better to use another database management system.

Security

These two database systems are pretty much locked down when it comes to security. Both come with proper security mechanisms by default, instructing you to follow the instructions and keep the software up to date with security patches. Both operate on known IP ports, which unfortunately attracts a large number of intruders, a disadvantage that can be attributed to both products. The good news is that MySQL and MS SQL allow you to switch ports in case the default becomes too vulnerable.

Recovery

When it comes to recovery, SQL Server has a clear advantage over MySQL, which tends to fall short with its MyISAM configuration. A UPS system is mandatory with MyISAM as it assumes uninterrupted operation. Should a power outage occur, it could result in corruption and loss of critical data. With SQL Server, data corruption is more unlikely. Data travels through various control points as it passes from your keyboard to the hard drive and through the monitor. Additionally, SQL Server keeps track of the process, even if the system shuts down unexpectedly.

The best decision

As you can see, both systems have their advantages and disadvantages. From our perspective, any product that allows you to be efficient is a good database; anything else that is not worth your time and frustration. When it comes to MySQL and MS SQL, the decision comes down to the situation and, more importantly, what you are looking to achieve.