What is the difference between MySQL and SQL?

MySQL and SQL have fundamental differences in database management and operations. Below, I will provide a detailed explanation of the distinctions between the two.

1. Definition and Nature:

   • SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standardized query language used for accessing and manipulating database systems. Its core functionalities include querying, updating, and managing database structures, as well as defining data structures and modifying data.
   • MySQL is a database management system (or database server) that implements part or all of the SQL language functionality, enhancing database management and access through additional features. It is a specific implementation based on SQL, supporting operations such as data storage, querying, and updating.

2. Application and Implementation:

   • SQL as a query language is widely supported and used across almost all relational database management systems (RDBMS), including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, SQLite, and MySQL.
   • MySQL is an open-source relational database management system commonly deployed in websites and web applications due to its high performance, low cost, and reliability. It uses SQL as its query language but has been extended and optimized to support specific features, such as full-text search and replication.

3. Examples:

   • When using SQL, a typical query might be:

     sql
     SELECT * FROM users WHERE age > 20;

     This query maintains identical meaning and purpose across any database system that supports SQL.
   • When using SQL within a MySQL database, specific extensions can be utilized, such as:

     sql
     SELECT * FROM users WHERE MATCH(name) AGAINST ('+Alice -Bob' IN BOOLEAN MODE);

     This query demonstrates full-text search in MySQL, showcasing MySQL-specific SQL extensions.

In summary, SQL is a language standard for operating and querying databases, while MySQL is one of the database systems implementing this language, providing concrete functionalities like data storage, query optimization, data security, and integrity.