BANGALORE: Software available in MySQL Network and the MySQL Community Edition is now set to become available under the "dual licensing" model. The novel license model entitles users to either avail MySQL products under the free software/open source GNU General Public License (commonly known as GPL), or under a commercial license.
ISVs and resellers, who are embedding and reselling the MySQL database server as part of their own commercial solutions, can opt for a MySQL commercial license.
MySQL Community Edition, though downloadable, has not been certified and is not considered ready to be set to work in enterprise production. It does, however, provide a quick and easy way for open source developers and technology enthusiasts to get started with MySQL.
Those looking to employ certified software that conforms to high levels of quality testing for consistent uptime and fast performance would be advised to purchase MySQL Network. MySQL Network includes MySQL Advisors, that help eliminate problems before they occur, besides production support directly from MySQL support engineers worldwide.
MySQL licenses, support and training can be easily purchased online. MySQL newsletter opens up opportunities for those who desire to stay updated on MySQL news. Newsletter subscribers get the advantage of all the latest tips and hints to better harness the software.
Third-party software packages might be licensed differently than MySQL AB products. MySQL is also available pre-installed on a hosted server from certified hosting partners, or on a database server appliance from certified hardware partners.
-CIOL Bureau