MariaDB is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that is a fork of MySQL, designed to be highly compatible with it while providing additional features and improvements. It offers enhanced performance, scalability, and security, making it a popular choice for developers and organizations looking for a robust database solution. MariaDB supports a variety of storage engines, including the default InnoDB, and features a powerful query optimizer, full-text search capabilities, and a user-friendly interface. With its active community and strong commitment to open-source principles, MariaDB is suitable for a wide range of applications, from small websites to large-scale enterprise solutions.

Features of MariaDB:

• Open-source and highly compatible with MySQL.
• Enhanced performance and scalability for demanding applications.
• Support for multiple storage engines for flexibility in data handling.
• Powerful query optimizer for improved query performance.
• Full-text search capabilities for efficient data retrieval.
• User-friendly interface for easy database management.
• Strong community support and commitment to open-source development.

To check MariaDB version, run: $ mysql -V

Disclaimer: MariaDB is distributed under the GNU General Public License. While it is free to use, users are responsible for their own database management, hosting, and any necessary maintenance. MariaDB is provided "as is," without any warranty, express or implied.