Access Vs MySql

[Morgoth]

Hello.

Right now, I am running an access webpage, and it hasn't been released for public view, anytime I use an access database where I have more then one person viewing it at a time, it's only for small tasks.

Now what I need to know, since every time a page is viewed, the database is accessed (almost), should I change over from access to MySql?

If anyone suggests this, can you please tell me what the BIG difference really is? Why is Access slower then MySql, and is there anything different when I add information to the db, remove info, or view info?

Thanks for your help.

[oracleguy]

Nothing is really different when preforming queries cuz they both use SQL. The only real difference is the connection code. Like today I converted one of my access databases over to MsSQL and all I had to do is change the connection code and it was done.

Access is okay for small-end stuff. I think the biggest it can get before it blows a fuse is a gigabyte. I believe Access can only support up to 10 connections at once. But if you open and close the connection with each page and have low traffic then it might not be a problem unless you get more than 10 different pages trying to load at the exact same second.

I believe MySQL also supports more functions in the SQL language than Access does too.

[raf]

If it's only for an app with 1 or a few simultanious users, then Access is fine. Infact, you have some goodies like Data Shaping, Stored Procedures, Relationships ... that MySQL doesn't support. I also believe MySQL doesn't support rowlevel locking and Access does. (+ it's easier to work with since you can use all sorts of wizzards)

If your planning on upsize later to MySQL --> then don't use the above goodies, cause this would mean you need to recode some of your app.

[Morgoth]

I don't think I have gone really crazy with access, I am only using it to store text data that I send it... Since I don't know how to do, or what those things are, (Data Shaping, Stored Procedures, Relationships...) then I doubt I am using them...

[Morgoth]

The only thing I dislike about MySQL vs Access, is the wizard for sure... I don't know how to set specific data types.
I am using phpMyAdmin as a wizard at the moment, but it is very odd how it works. And MySQL is very complicated in itself...

[oracleguy]

Originally posted by Morgoth
Since I don't know how to do, or what those things are, (Data Shaping, Stored Procedures, Relationships...) then I doubt I am using them...

Oh! I'd take a look... especially at Stored Procedures and Relationships.

Heres a quick thing on Stored Proceedures: http://www.aspalliance.com/chrisg/default.asp?article=45

[Morgoth]

Ok, I see..
Well, I only use SQL statements... (I think) so I don't think we have a problem...

[Bullschmidt]

I'd say don't switch until you notice performance problems because Access is SO EASY to maintain.

[raf]

Don't be to conservative :D . Access easy to maintain? Maybe. But if you'dont host the db yourself, it can be a real pain to make some changes. I wrote a database-webfront for that which is quite logically (but not fency or so) and that focussen on DDL (data definition --> ceating/modifying tabels and variabels and deleting records). It uses quite 'standard' sql so i'm planning on testing and adapting in for MySQL databases (using ASP) and distribute it. Actually, writing a db webfront for MySQL with PHP is easier and would provide much more functionalitys then wrinting something for an Access database. But why reinvent that.

I don't like phpMyAdmin that much myself, buth there are/were better alternatives (MySQL front for one). So ease to use shouldn't be your mainconcern IMO

[Morgoth]

Where can I get MySQL front?
Is it free?

I need a program or something that acts like Access does, and is VERY easy to edit, and make changes too.
Not just witht he field informations, but with the fields or the tables themselves!

[raf]

A quick search told me that the project was discontinued. :(. But i can mail you the installation file (i assume i've got it on my machine at home).
What i like about it, is that it's kind of a combination if explorer/access designview/sql-view and table-view (window is composed of different pannels with another view)+ combines wizards but also shows the executed code, contains a sort of notepad window where you can type in your own statements, you can use it as a client for a MySQL server on another machine etc. IMO it's way 'better' then phpMyAdmin, but most (free) hosts provide phpMyAdmin and don't allow use of other external clients + you'll find more support (at least here) for phpMyAdmin
This is a very similar product:
http://www.databasejournal.com/features/mysql/article.php/1558731
If you run some searches, you'll ptobably find dozens of free others.