Trying to install SQL to write & run queries

londonman81

I'm trying to learn SQL and have just attempted a download from mySQL.

However, when I try to download the workbench, I get an error message which says something about needing Windows XP with SP3 and .Net 4.0 Client Profile. So I duly installed .Net 4.0 which then gave a 'blockage error'. Turned out this was nothing to do with the toilet but required some imaging download. So I then downloaded the require download, and then re-installed .Net which finally installed.

Now when I try to install the mySQL workbench it still does not install and give me the original error again.

I'm not sure what's missing. Why on earth is it sooo difficult to get going on something that I want to learn...and it's the same with other programming languages too. Each time I try to install the development tools, something or other messes up or is missing...

Any help appreciated - thanks!

debitcardmayhem

Have you installed the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable http://dev.mysql.com/resources/wb52_prerequisites.html

paddyrg

Personally I have never really liked mySQL - postgres is also free now and is frankly a lot more mature and capable to my mind. It is a subtly different dialect but it is useful to know. Microsoft SQL Server also has a free version which is an easier install too.

HeavyHorse

You can use any db software to learn SQL. Ms access is probably a good starting point.

deadeyesteve

I would just install WAMPServer, otherwise you could be nee deep in config files and god knows what else. Your also have PHP and Apache server so you can work on PHP code connected with MySQL locally as well.

http://www.wampserver.com/en/

bob_a_builder

Could get started a lot quicker with something like this

http://www.sqlcourse.com/

Pugwash69

Microsoft SQL Express is free and the client tools are pretty good. I've been using for years, since it was called MSDE. The "For Dummies" books are pretty well recommended on any sql management courses I've been on too.

InsideInsurance

And both Oracle and DB2 both have free versions now..... not sure that there is any SQL server that doesnt any more.

To the OP - what are you actually wanting to do? Simply learn SQL for its own sake? Using it for a website? Try and become a DBA as a career?

Personally I have never found MySQL to be very friendly in the Windows environment and isnt worth the struggle of getting it to work unless you particularly need to given there are other free options which are more friendly