Databasing - what should I use?

[ivy]

Hello

I have a database on my computer in the form of an Access.mdb and would like to use it on my web site.

The database has a few tables, queries and forms and I want to know whether these can be used as is, and the forms etc. called on or whether I need to export all the info etc. to another program and start all the queruies/forms again.

I have heard of Mysql and popped into that forum briefly and was directed by the top post to mysql.com where..... I didn't really learn too much - not because there isn't enough info there, far from it, but because the only databasing I have ever done on a web site is using a flat file and using a perl.cgi script to call it. Unfortuantely, this is not as advanced as I need the new database to be.

Could anyone direct me to where I can learn about databasing on-line please. Or better still, give me your views on what I should / should not be doing.

Look forward to hearing as many opinions as possible.

I should point out that I am conversant with MS Access 97 and that I know that my hosting company provides for Mysql (but does this use Access?).

[nickbarresi]

Webmonkey.com has some pretty good stuff on MySQL, it's very easy to learn. I'd try that first:)

[webmarkart]

I use access databases for several of my websites and although I know mysql offers less limitations (supposedly), I have never run into problems with access. To use an access database on the web, you do not need to modify the .mdb file but you will need a server side language to communicate to the database. Which server side language you use is a matter of personal preference but I use ASP (utilizing sql) but you can also use php or cgi.

I did a quick search and these pages might help:
http://www.haneng.com/Lessons_17.asp
http://www.asp101.com/samples/index.asp (several tutorials)
http://www.stardeveloper.com/articles/display.html?article=2000030903&page=1
http://www.webwizguide.info/asp/tutorials/connecting_to_a_database.asp

hope some of this helps

[ivy]

Hi there

Thank you nickbarresi and webmarket.

I read nickbarresi's reply and went straight to www.webmonkey.com where I had a good read.

I am now going to use Access and .asp as this seems straight (ish) forward for me...

I am having problems though!

So that I do not cross post, my problem(s) are now posted in the asp forum.

Thank you for your help - and webmarket, I will now read what you have recommended to see where I am going wrong.

Many thanks