MariaDB vs MySQL: Core Similarities and Differences

This blog will walk you through the similarities and differences between mariadb vs mysql. Join in!

Preface

According to DB-Engines, MySQL is one of the most widely used database management systems in the world. MySQL has a couple of forks and MariaDB is one of the primary ones.

It’s safe to say that both MySQL and MariaDB have a lot to champion; however, this also leaves many users wondering what’s the best choice for their specific use case. Today, we’re digging into MariaDB vs MySQL.

MariaDB vs MySQL – Similarities

Starting from similarities, both MariaDB and MySQL indeed have a lot in common:

• Both database management systems are based on the relational model.
• Both database management systems run similar storage engines.
• Both MariaDB vs MySQL offer similar security features including encryption, access control mechanisms, user authentication and access control, and support for SSL.
• When it comes to the client-server protocol, MariaDB has also maintained compatibility with the client-server protocol of MySQL for a long time allowing users to connect to MariaDB using MySQL tools and vice versa.
• Finally, the SQL syntax between MariaDB vs MySQL is largely identical too meaning that the two database management systems can be used together or separately without causing SQL problems for your specific use case.

MariaDB vs MySQL – Differences

When it comes to differences between MariaDB and MySQL, the two also have something to note:

• MariaDB offers support for more storage engines than MySQL – MariaDB offers support for MariaDB ColumnStore, Aria, CONNECT, FederatedX, Mroonga, MyRocks, OQGraph, the S3 storage engine, and others.
• Compared with MySQL, MariaDB does have a smaller developer community around itself.
• Some features working in MySQL Server may not be supported in a MariaDB setup and the functionality of some features may differ.
• Some MySQL features such as the MySQL Enterprise Firewall require you to have a commercial license.
• MySQL uses a dual licensing model while MariaDB is distributed under the GPL v2 license to ensure it is open-source. Also, when comparing development, Oracle has the final say in everything MySQL-related, while MariaDB relies on the feedback of the community.

Everything considered, keep in mind that it’s very important to keep your use case in mind before making a choice. Also, keep in mind that the performance of your database directly depends on the settings you’ve configured, so configure your database properly to avoid errors.

Summary

MariaDB vs MySQL is a topic of debate for many – the two rivals have a lot to celebrate, however, they’re also home to various differences. We hope that this blog helped you better understand what those similarities and differences are, and until next time.

FAQ

What are the Differences Between MariaDB vs MySQL?

The differences between MariaDB vs MySQL include differences in their approach to licensing, the community around them, as well as the types of storage engines they can offer.

What to Choose – MariaDB or MySQL?

When choosing one or the other, keep your use case in mind, and also consider the differences and similarities between the two databases.

Where Can I Learn More About Database Performance?

To learn more about database performance, security, availability, and database-related things in general, make sure to follow blogs like the BreachDirectory blog, stay updated by attending conferences, as well as grab a book or two before you go to bed. Hacking MySQL: Breaking, Optimizing, and Securing MySQL for Your Use Case is a great place to start.