Installing a MySQL Database Server

The following instructions describe the steps necssary to locate and download the MySQL database server (Version 5.2) and then install it onto a Windows computer:

1. Using your browser go to http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/ which is the page listing the various MySQL server downloads.
   
   
2. Click on the link the the latest production version in this case MySQL 5.1 which takes you to the download page http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/mysql/5.1.html. This page contains a list of many different versions of MySQL and it is the Community Edition that should be downloaded.
   
   
3. Download the Windows Essentials (x86) package which includes the common tools. Depending on the browser you are using you may get a choice of "Download" or "Pick a mirror". If you need to use "Pick a mirror" choose a server in your country and follow the instructions on screen.
   
   
4. I you are using Microsoft Explorer, you can Run this package directly from the web, by clicking Run when the question, "Do you want to run or save this file?" appears.
   
   
   
   If you are using Firefox or another browser you may need to download then Open the download file in order to run the installation.
   
   
   
   
5. The MySQL Server 5.1 - Setup Wizard window will appear and when it does Click Next.
   
   
   
   
6. Ensure the Typical Install radio button is selected, and click Next.
   
   
   
   
   
7. Then Click Install.
   
   
8. A MySQL Enterprise window will then appear, Click Next twice more.
   
   
   
   
9. Once the installation Wizard is complete, make sure the "Configure the MySQL now" checkbox is selected, you may turn off the "Register the MySQL Server now" then click Finish.
   
   
10. The installation instructions are continued in Part 2 of this article.
    
    

If you want to learn how to use SQL we have a two day SQL Introduction training course which is run every month or privately as required.