Do I need to buy a MySQL License?

Question

I am building a non open source web project and using MySQL database.

Do I need to pay for a MySQL license or not? and why?

Answer 1

Information from the MySQL-Website:

MySQL AB provides its software (database server, connectors, tools) under a number of flexible licenses, designed to meet the usage and distribution requirements of different types of users:

For Open Source Projects: If you are developing and distributing open source applications under the GPL License, then you are free to use MySQL under the GPL License. More Info » If you are developing and distributing open source applications under an OSI-Approved License, but not the GPL, MySQL provides the GPL License with a FLOSS Exception.

For Commercial OEMs, ISVs and VARs: For OEMs, ISVs, and VARs who distribute MySQL with their products, and do not license and distribute their source code under the GPL, MySQL provides a flexible OEM Commercial License.

For Web Sites, Enterprise IT, and Government IT: MySQL Enterprise is the comprehensive subscription offering that provides database developers and DBAs with everything they need to successfully develop and deploy database solutions with MySQL. It includes Certified Software, updates and upgrades, proactive alerts and advisors, the online MySQL Knowledge Base, and full production-level technical support. The Certified Software (database server, connectors) is provided under the GPL License. Optionally, customers may choose a Commercial License.

At MySQL AB we believe in open source software. We encourage everyone to publish open source software under the GPL License.

So it depends of the categorie of your project if you must/mustn't use a commecial licence. Source

Answer 2

If you're going to do all the hosting for your web project and run MySQL on your server(s), then you don't.

If you're going to sell/distribute your web project (perhaps as an "appliance" of some sort) and bundle MySQL in your distribution, then you do.