MySQL.Org
By: Charles Randolf

MySQL.org is an example of a trend we see far too often, people (some might
call vultures) who take advantage of an already established brand or trade name
and trying to "ride  their wave". Most of these sites are harmless fan sites,
some are non-profit, but when these sites try to profit; that's when we have a problem.

We decided to investigate the merits of MySQL AB view that this particular site
is a threat to them and the open source community.

MySQL and Oracle help keep the biggest websites working, they connect
databases and the world together. Some of the largest websites use MySQL
such as Yahoo!


Initial Impression
Upon first glance you would think you were looking at an official MySQL approved
site, there is no disclaimer saying otherwise.

On the first page they mention all these services are fast and free. But upon deeper
inspection, a registration is required. We registered with them, and it took us right
to the files it promised.

All the files and documentation comes from the MySQL AB website.
According to many GNU/Linux copyleft license agreements, anyone may distribute
these files as long as no one is charging for them.


Not A Single Banner
We didn't see any signs of MySQL.org trying to profit from banner ads.
Their was one page under Documentation that featured books from Amazon.com
which they would profit from any sales. Whether or not any proceeds from these
sales would even pay for the server rent is another matter.

From looking at this site, it would be difficult to spot any blatant attempts to
make willful gain off their success.

At this point it would appear the only person to gain from this website would
be Amazon.com with their some 90% or so of these sales ending up theirs.


Misleading?
MySQL CEO Maren Mickos believes this site misrepresents them and their
developers and believes it does so because their site fails to give proper
credit. He also believes that since this site doesn't properly make the viewer
aware that no registration is required when you download the software
and never has been required:

"We think it threatens the community of MySQL users by not being clear that
it does not represent the developers behind the product. It does not state
who the people or organizations behind it are. It may lead people to
believe you have to register to download the MySQL software, when you can
do it without registration on our and other sites. It says "Copyright (c)
2001 mySQL.org" but we have not been able to find a company or organization
by that name. Customers must be able to trust the MySQL trademark and not
be confused, but this site adds to the confusion." - Mike Mickos CEO

We would definitely have to agree, that this website IS misleading to a certain degree.
It never states as it should "This site is not endorsed or approved by MySQL AB"
MySQL is a trademark people can trust and we can certainly understand them
wanting to prevent any damage to brand they worked hard to establish.

Editors Note: They do have one disclaimer >
This web site is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by MySQL AB. If you are looking for MySQL AB, click here.



In Conclusion
While we would not like to see the MySQL.org site shut down, we do agree that
some serious changes need to be made, in order to give the proper credit and
disclaim their connection with the MySQL AB people.  We would like to thank
MySQL AB for taking their time to hear our questions and offer their comments.

MySQL is a great program, and it will no doubt continue to gain a wider user base
and we wish them and MySQL.org the best of luck.

For more information, the official statement can be found here:
MySQL AB official statement