MySQL databases in PowerWolf management software
Centralised data, multi-workstation access and local or Aruba cloud-hosted solutions
A reliable database for organising and sharing information
MySQL is used in our main management applications to separate data from the software and support flexible configurations
What is MySQL?
MySQL is a relational database management system, often referred to as an RDBMS. It uses the SQL language to organise, query and update data stored in interconnected tables.
MySQL uses a client-server architecture: the database is managed by a server, while authorised applications connect to read or modify information. This model is particularly suitable for management software used from multiple workstations.
🔗 Visit the official MySQL website
📘 View the official documentation
Why we use it
In PowerWolf management software, MySQL stores customer and member records, transactions, documents, payments, deadlines, activities and other operational information in a structured manner.
Separating the application from the database simplifies the use of the same archive from multiple computers and makes it possible to choose where the data is hosted: on a server at the customer’s premises or on a remote server accessible through the Internet.
This architecture is useful both for small organisations with several workstations on a local network and for organisations that need to connect offices or operators in different locations.
MySQL Community Edition
MySQL is also available as the Community Edition, distributed free of charge under the open-source GPL licence. The choice of version, installation and configuration should be assessed according to the operating system, number of workstations and the organisation’s requirements.
For self-managed installations, we recommend entrusting the configuration of the server, users, network ports, updates and backups to a qualified technician.
Three possible database configurations
The most suitable solution depends on the number of workstations, connected locations and available technical expertise
Server at your premises
🏢 Database on the local network
MySQL can be installed on a computer or server within your organisation.
Workstations on the same LAN can connect to the centralised database. This solution keeps the data within the organisation’s own infrastructure and can provide good performance on the local network.
The customer remains responsible for configuration, server availability, network security, updates and backups.
Customer-managed MySQL server
🌐 Your own server accessible online
An existing MySQL server hosted by a provider or on your own remote infrastructure can be used.
This configuration allows authorised workstations to use the same archive from different locations. It requires a reachable address, dedicated credentials and a properly secured network configuration.
Server administration, firewall rules, updates, monitoring and backups remain the responsibility of the customer or their technical provider.
PowerWolf remote database
☁️ Database on Aruba cloud infrastructure
PowerWolf can provide a preconfigured remote MySQL database for compatible software.
This solution avoids the need for customers to install and make their own MySQL server accessible. Different workstations can connect through the Internet using the parameters provided by PowerWolf.
The features, costs and service conditions are described on the dedicated page.
Benefits of MySQL in management software
A relational database facilitates the organised and shared management of operational information
Centralised data
- ✓ A single archive accessible from authorised workstations;
- ✓ fewer separate and unsynchronised copies of the same data;
- ✓ updates immediately available to other operators;
- ✓ relational organisation of records, transactions and documents;
- ✓ ability to manage archives containing large amounts of interconnected information.
Multi-workstation operation
- ✓ Multiple computers connected to the same database;
- ✓ use on a local network or, with suitable configuration, through the Internet;
- ✓ support for different offices, departments or locations;
- ✓ centralised management of database users;
- ✓ greater continuity than manually exchanging files between workstations.
Flexibility and growth
- ✓ Ability to move the database to a more suitable server;
- ✓ separation between installed software and data archive;
- ✓ configurations adaptable to organisations of different sizes;
- ✓ widely available administration tools and documentation;
- ✓ ability to implement professional backup and recovery procedures.
PowerWolf software that uses MySQL
Each product uses the database to manage information specific to its field
PowerBK
Software for cataloguing books and managing libraries, collections, contacts, loans and transactions. The database centralises the catalogue and operations performed from authorised workstations.
PowerCLUB
Management software for clubs, associations and sports centres. MySQL makes it possible to share member records, membership cards, payments, activities, deadlines and access-control data.
PowerFIT
Management software for gyms, fitness clubs and sports centres. The database stores member records, subscriptions, payments, courses, attendance and information used by the facility’s workstations.
PowerPRA
Software for managing cases, customers, documents, protocols, payments and deadlines. MySQL is particularly useful in offices where several operators work on the same archive.
PowerSPED
Management software for shipments, customers, cases and operational activities. A shared database allows authorised staff to view and update information from multiple workstations.
PowerDOGs
Software for breeders, boarding facilities, kennels and the management of dogs and other animals. MySQL organises animal records, genealogies, litters, accommodation, expenses, visits and deadlines.
Security and access
MySQL allows users to be created with specific credentials and permissions. A correct configuration can restrict database access to only the required workstations and operations.
Security does not depend solely on the database: the server, operating system, network, passwords and any Internet connections must also be protected.
Performance and connection
On a well-configured local network, the connection to the server can be fast and stable. When the database is remote, performance also depends on latency, Internet connection speed and the amount of data transferred.
For this reason, we assess the solution according to the type of software, number of workstations and the customer’s operating requirements.
Backup and continuity
A centralised database must be protected with regular backups. It is important to keep at least one copy separate from the main server and periodically verify that restoration is possible.
Using MySQL or cloud infrastructure does not replace a proper backup, update and system-monitoring strategy.
Frequently asked questions about MySQL and PowerWolf management software
Essential information for choosing between your own server and a remote database
FAQ
Question: What is MySQL?
Answer: MySQL is a relational database management system based on the SQL language. It allows authorised applications to store, search and update data organised in tables.
Question: What benefits does MySQL offer in management software?
Answer: It makes it possible to centralise data, connect multiple workstations to the same archive, manage users and permissions and separate the application from the database. Performance and security also depend on the overall configuration.
Question: Can I install MySQL on my own server?
Answer: Yes. You can set up a server on the local network or use an existing remote server. Installation, protection, updates and backups must be managed by qualified personnel.
Question: Does PowerWolf offer a remote MySQL database?
Answer: Yes. For compatible software, a remote database configured by PowerWolf on Aruba cloud infrastructure can be purchased. See the Remote MySQL database page for features and conditions.
Question: Does the remote database allow users to work from different locations?
Answer: Yes. Authorised workstations can connect to the same archive through the Internet when supported by the software and selected configuration. A stable connection is required.
Question: Does MySQL replace backups?
Answer: No. Regular backups must always be performed, and it should be periodically verified that the data can be restored correctly.
Question: Does all PowerWolf software require a remote database?
Answer: No. The configuration depends on the product and the customer’s requirements. In many cases, a database on the customer’s own network can be used; the remote database is an option for those who want to share data through the Internet without managing their own server.
Important notice
MySQL is a product and trademark of its respective owners. PowerWolf Software Solutions develops applications compatible with MySQL but is not the database manufacturer. The performance, availability and security of an installation also depend on the hardware, operating system, network, server configuration, updates and backup procedures adopted. Before making a server accessible through the Internet, assistance from a qualified technician should be requested.