MySQL is an open source relational database management system that powers popular apps like Facebook, X, Netflix, and Airbnb. It allows developers to connect to a database using various methods, including command-line options or graphical user interfaces (GUIs) like MySQL Workbench and Sequel Ace. To get started with connecting to MySQL, users can download the MySQL Community Server for their operating system and follow the instructions provided in this article. The MySQL Community Server includes features like security and bug fixes, and there are currently two generally available versions: 8.4.0 LTS and 8.0.37. Once connected, developers can use MySQL to store, organize, retrieve, and update data efficiently, and integrate it with other apps using workflow automation tools like Zapier.