Databases
MySQL for Busy Web Apps
MySQL runs a huge share of the web. We design schemas, tune queries and set up replication so your application database stays fast and dependable.
Overview
MySQL
MySQL is an open source relational database widely used behind PHP, Node.js and Java applications, and it is the default database for WordPress and many commerce platforms. The InnoDB storage engine provides ACID transactions, row-level locking and foreign keys, while replication supports read scaling and failover. It is easy to start with and just as easy to leave unoptimized.
Our MySQL work covers the practical problems web teams hit: slow queries, missing indexes, lock contention, bloated tables and risky schema changes. We analyze with EXPLAIN and the slow query log, design indexes around real access patterns, and run online schema migrations. We also configure backups, replicas and managed services such as Amazon RDS, Aurora MySQL or Cloud SQL, and handle MariaDB compatibility questions.
Context
Why teams choose it
- 01
Proven and widely supported
A huge ecosystem of tools, hosting and expertise makes MySQL a low-risk choice for web applications.
- 02
Good for read-heavy workloads
Replication and caching patterns scale reads well for content and commerce sites.
- 03
Works with common stacks
It is the default pairing for PHP frameworks, WordPress, Magento and WooCommerce.
- 04
Flexible deployment
Run it self-managed, in containers or as a managed cloud service.
Capabilities
What we build with it
- 01
Schema design
Normalized tables, suitable data types and constraints that protect data integrity.
- 02
Query and index tuning
EXPLAIN analysis, composite indexes and query rewrites guided by real traffic.
- 03
Replication and failover
Primary-replica setups, read routing and failover planning for availability.
- 04
Safe migrations
Versioned schema changes and online migration techniques that limit downtime.
- 05
Backup and recovery
Automated backups, point-in-time recovery and tested restore procedures.
- 06
Cloud database setup
Configuration and tuning on RDS, Aurora, Cloud SQL or Azure Database for MySQL.
Typical projects
- WordPress and WooCommerce databases
- PHP and Laravel application backends
- Read-heavy content platforms
- Moving MySQL to a managed cloud service
- Fixing slow admin and reporting queries
Ecosystem & tooling
- MySQL
- InnoDB
- MariaDB
- Amazon RDS
- Aurora MySQL
- Percona Toolkit
- ProxySQL
- phpMyAdmin
Approach
How we work with it
- 1
Assess
We review your goals and any existing code to decide where this technology fits best.
- 2
Architect
We plan structure, integrations, data flow and hosting before writing production code.
- 3
Build
Features ship in small, reviewed increments with automated checks along the way.
- 4
Release & maintain
We deploy, monitor and keep dependencies and versions up to date.
FAQs
Common questions
Have a question that is not covered here? Get in touch.
MySQL or MariaDB?
MariaDB began as a MySQL fork and remains largely compatible, but the two have diverged in features and tooling. We check your application and hosting requirements before recommending one.
MySQL or PostgreSQL?
MySQL is a solid default for typical web applications and is the standard for several CMS and commerce platforms. PostgreSQL offers richer SQL features and extensions, which can matter for complex data work.
Can MySQL handle large datasets?
Yes, with sound indexing, partitioning where suited and read replicas. Very high write volumes or heavily relational analytics may call for a different design, and we advise on this early.
How do you avoid downtime during schema changes?
We use online schema change tools, backward-compatible migrations and staged deployments. Some changes still need a short maintenance window, which we plan with you.
Let's build what's next
Tell us about your idea, product or legacy system. Send us a message and we will help you scope the right next step.