Sun Buys MySQL for $1 Billion

Sun Microsystems has inked a deal to acquire open-source database developer MySQL AB for $1 billion, with plans to bring the popular database to enterprise customers.

Although Digital Trends doesn’t normally cover news in enterprise computing, a recent development bears some mention: Sun Microsystems has announced it plans to aquire open source database developer MySQL AB for about $1 billion. MySQL is very likely the most widely-deployed open source database in the world, with more than 100 million copies downloaded, with another 500,000 copies distributed every day. MySQL powers both everyday Web sites like blogs and small businesses, as well as high-profile, high-traffic sites that, for whatever reasons, preferred an open source solution to commercial products from the likes of Oracle and Microsoft.

"Today’s acquisition reaffirms Sun’s position at the center of the global Web economy," said Sun president and CEO Jonathan Schwartz, in a statement. "Supporting our overall growth plan, acquiring MySQL amplifies our investments in the technologies demanded by those driving extreme growth and efficiency, from Internet media titans to the world’s largest traditional enterprises."

MySQL had been privately held; the acquisition puts to rest persistent pressure on the company to take the company public and offer an IPO. Through the deal, MySQL CEO Marten Mickos will likely wind up on Sun’s senior executive team.

Sun plans to extend the commercial capabilities of the MySQL database and offer it in combination with Sun’s existing technology solutions to "traditional applications and enterprises." MySQL will also pick up new distribution channels through Sun’s partnerships with Dell, IBM, and Intel. Although more details will be forthcoming, Sun apparently plans the new offerings as a compliment to MySQL’s current open source offerings, rather than as a replacement.

In related news, database giant Oracle has put an end to a months-long bidding war by announcing it will buy competitor BEA Systems for some $7.85 billion. BEA developes middleware that integrates databases with busines operations. The move is the latest in a series of high-priced acquisitions by Oracle, which in the last few years has also acquired PeopleSoft, Siebel, and Hyperion.