MySQL Download: Step-by-Step Guide to Installing MySQL
MySQL is a powerful, open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) used for web development, data storage, and enterprise applications. In this guide, you’ll learn how to download and install MySQL on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Discover more at RedSysTech MySQL Guide.
Why Use MySQL?
- Open-source & free – No licensing costs.
- Fast and scalable – Used in small and large-scale applications.
- Secure & reliable – Supports data encryption, backups, and ACID compliance.
- Cross-platform support – Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Integrates with multiple programming languages like PHP, Python, and Java.
Explore MySQL Features.
MySQL Download – Official Website
1. Visit the MySQL Official Website
- Go to MySQL Downloads.
- Choose the MySQL Community Edition, which is free and open-source.

Installing MySQL on Windows
1. Download MySQL Installer
- Select Windows (x86, 64-bit), MySQL Installer.
- Click on Download and save the file.
2. Run the Installer
- Open the MySQL Installer and choose Custom Installation.
- Select MySQL Server, MySQL Workbench, and MySQL Shell.
- Click Next and follow the installation process.
3. Configure MySQL Server
- Choose Standalone MySQL Server and click Next.
- Set the root password (Make sure to remember it).
- Click Finish to complete the installation.
4. Verify MySQL Installation
Open Command Prompt and type:
mysql -u root -p

Installing MySQL on macOS
1. Download MySQL DMG Package
- Go to MySQL Downloads and select macOS DMG Archive.
- Download and install MySQL.
2. Configure MySQL
- Open System Preferences → MySQL.
- Click Start MySQL Server and set up your root password.
3. Verify Installation
Open Terminal and type:
mysql -u root -p
Explore Installing MySQL on macOS.
Installing MySQL on Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)
1. Update the System
sudo apt update
2. Install MySQL Server
sudo apt install mysql-server
3. Start & Enable MySQL
sudo systemctl start mysql
sudo systemctl enable mysql

MySQL Workbench – GUI for Managing Databases
1. Download MySQL Workbench
- Go to MySQL Workbench Downloads.
- Choose Windows, macOS, or Linux version.
2. Install and Connect to MySQL Server
- Open MySQL Workbench.
- Click New Connection → Enter root username and password.
- Click Test Connection and start managing your database.
Explore MySQL Workbench Guide.
Troubleshooting MySQL Installation Issues
1. MySQL Service Not Starting
- Run the following command to restart MySQL:
sudo systemctl restart mysql
2. Forgot MySQL Root Password
- Reset password using the following command:
ALTER USER 'root'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'NewPassword';
3. MySQL Port Conflict
- Change MySQL port in my.cnf file:
[mysqld]
port = 3307
Check out MySQL Troubleshooting Guide.
MySQL vs Other Databases (PostgreSQL, SQL Server, MongoDB)
Feature | MySQL | PostgreSQL | SQL Server | MongoDB |
---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Relational | Relational | Relational | NoSQL |
Speed | Fast | Moderate | Fast | Very Fast |
Best For | Web Apps | Advanced Queries | Enterprise Apps | NoSQL Apps |
ACID Compliance | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Check out MySQL vs PostgreSQL vs SQL Server.
Conclusion
- MySQL is a widely used database system for web development and enterprise applications.
- You can install MySQL on Windows, macOS, and Linux with simple steps.
- MySQL Workbench provides a GUI for managing databases efficiently.
Start using MySQL Today.