Go to MySQL Downloads page for the latest stable release. We are using here ' mysql-4.1.12-win32.zip, the latest stable recommended release as of 27/05/05. It is a 35.7 Mb download so either patience or broadband is required here, or get an earlier version from a cover disk of a computer mag. This is the binary version and contains an installer package which does most of the work for you these days. The need for manual editing of config files has therefore been reduced.

Download to a temporary location, I have a 'Master Programs' folder which I download to and extract from there.

Step 2 - Install MySQL

Extract the downloaded zip into its current location, then run the resulting 'setup.exe' file to start the mysql installer.

Open a DOS box (Start > Run > cmd <enter>) and from the 'C:\mysql\bin\' directory , type in 'cd c:\mysql\bin' Once there type in 'mysqld --install'

Thats all there is to it, MySQL should now be ready for use.

Whats next ? Coming up will be a short tutorial on creating a basic database so that you get the idea of what is going on behind the scenes. This will be combined with a quick installation guide and introduction to phpMyAdmin, a great front end GUI to help create and organise your databases. Also coming up is the installation tutorial for the 'Invision Power Board' forums board program, so you get real benefit from your newly installed PHP and MySQL.