How to Install MySQL Server on Windows?

🛠️ How to Install MySQL Server on Windows

Many PHP-based web applications require a MySQL database server to operate. This guide will walk you through installing and configuring the MySQL Community Server on a Windows machine.

🔽 Step 1: Download MySQL Community Server

1. Visit the official MySQL download page:
   https://dev.mysql.com/downloads/mysql

2. Select your operating system:

   • Choose Windows

   • Select either the 32-bit or 64-bit version, depending on your system architecture.

3. Download the Windows Essentials package – it’s the lightest installer and includes what you need.

🧰 Step 2: Run the Installation Wizard

1. Launch the installer and follow the prompts.

2. On the Setup Type screen, choose Typical for the easiest configuration path.

⚙️ Step 3: Configure MySQL Server

After installation, you’ll be prompted to configure MySQL:

1. Configuration Type

• Choose Standard Configuration
  (This is ideal for most applications.)

2. Windows Service Setup

• Ensure Install As Windows Service is selected.

• Optionally select Launch the MySQL Server automatically.

3. Security Settings

• Set a strong password for the root user.

• Optionally check Enable root access from remote machines (helpful for external connections).

▶️ Step 4: Execute Configuration

• Click the Execute button to apply your settings.

• All steps should complete successfully.

🧪 Step 5: Test the MySQL Service

1. Open Command Prompt.

2. Navigate to your MySQL installation directory:

   cd C:\Program Files\MySQL\MySQL Server X.X\bin
   

3. Run the MySQL CLI:

   mysql -u root -p
   

4. Enter your root password when prompted.

5. To view available databases, run:

   SHOW DATABASES;
   

✅ You’ve successfully installed and configured MySQL Server on your Windows system! It's now ready to be used with your web applications.