MySQL is the world’s most popular open source database. With its proven performance, reliability, and ease-of-use, MySQL has become the leading database choice for web-based applications, used by high profile web properties including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube etc. Additionally, it is an extremely popular choice as embedded database, distributed by thousands of ISVs and OEMs.
Secure
MySQL consist of a solid data security layer that protects sensitive data from intruders. Passwords are encrypted in MySQL.
Client/ Server Architecture
MySQL follows a client /server architecture. There is a database server (MySQL) and arbitrarily many clients (application programs), which communicate with the server; that is, they query data, save changes, etc.
Scalable
MySQL can handle almost any amount of data, up to as much as 50 million rows or more. The default file size limit is about 4 GB. However, you can increase this number to a theoretical limit of 8 TB of data.
Performance/Flexibility/Productivity
MySQL is faster, more reliable and cheaper because of its unique storage engine architecture. MySQL supports a large number of embedded applications which makes MySQL very flexible.MySQL uses Triggers, Stored procedures and views which allows the developer to give a higher productivity.