What is MySQL Workbench?

MySQL Workbench is a graphical tool for working with MySQL.

MySQL Workbench provides an easy to use interface for performing the many tasks involved when working with databases. It integrates SQL development, administration, database design, creation and maintenance into one visual integrated development environment.

MySQL Workbench is similar to SQL Server’s SSMS, which is used for administering SQL Server.

MySQL Workbench is a graphical tool for working with MySQL.

MySQL Workbench Features

MySQL Workbench contains visual tools that allow you to tasks such as:

Create and view databases
Create and view other database objects (such as views, triggers, stored procedures, etc)
Create, execute, and optimize SQL queries
Configure servers
Administer users
Perform backup and recovery
Inspect audit data
View the server status
And more

Many of these tasks can be done by “point and click” via the GUI, or by SQL script using the Query tab.

MySQL Connections

When you open MySQL Workbench, you will see a screen containing your MySQL Connections:

Opening MySQL Workbench brings you to the “MySQL Connections” screen. If you have many MySQL connections, they will be listed here, for you to choose one to connect to.

Clicking on an connection will take you to the main console screen (like in the first screenshot), where you can work with that connection.