Install MySQL
You need a MySQL server on your computer, or a cloud one.
The server is the engine. You send SQL. It stores the data.
Pick a path
MySQL Community Server from mysql.com
XAMPP or MAMP if you also want PHP
Docker if you like containers
A hosted MySQL from a cloud shop
For this course, a local Community Server is enough.
On macOS
Homebrew can install the server.
After it starts, you log in as root or as a user you create.
| VERSION() |
|---|
| 8.4.5 |
1 row
On Windows
The MySQL Installer walks you through the server, Workbench, and a root password.
Write that password down. You need it to log in.
Check that it works
Open a terminal. Type mysql -u root -p.
Enter your password. You should see a mysql> prompt.
| Database |
|---|
| information_schema |
| fox_school |
| mysql |
| performance_schema |
4 rows
| NOW() |
|---|
| 2026-09-16 19:46:02 |
1 row
If login fails
The server might be off. Start the MySQL service.
The password might be wrong. Reset it with the installer docs.
The PATH might be missing. Use the full path to the mysql program.
Tip: Never use an empty root password on a real machine. Pick a long one.
Test yourself
Three quick questions made just for this lesson. Earn 10 XP per correct answer.