Here's a brief history of why we use MySQL:
Bomis' first database experience was using the software that runs slashdot. At the time, it required MySQL (other databases are supported now). So, we installed it. Our next database project (Nupedia) was shortly thereafter, and we had no reason to learn a whole different database setup. So, when Wikipedia came along, and we decided to make it database-driven, it just didn't make sense to change databases, especially since it would mean we would have to change Nupedia to the new format.
Now, the programmer who wrote Nupedia (for the most part) is no longer with Bomis. I'm not sure what, if any, MySQL specific properties Nupedia uses (or Wikipedia, for that matter). I am not opposed to installing a different database, but I can't really spend a lot of time on the conversion of the software. Of course, it's not really my decision anyway...
Jason Richey
Brion L. VIBBER wrote:
Oh, it's not like that hasn't been suggested. If anybody knows how to go about switching to Postgres, I sure as heck wouldn't object. I have no emotional attachment to MySQL; as far as I know it's only being used because Magnus was already familiar with it.