Redmond exploits MySQL uncertainty

Microsoft is offering a migration tool for firms currently using MySQL, an open-source database whose future is currently in the balance.

If database giant Oracle is allowed to acquire Sun by the EC's anti-trust team - and not forced to spin off Sun's open-source database MySQL - MySQL users may find themselves pushed into upgrading to an Oracle database.

Microsoft's new tool will allow users who do not want to upgrade to Oracle an alternative.

The tool, called SQL Server Migration Assistant (SSMA), can be downloaded from Microsoft's website.

The assistant comes in two versions, depending on whether firms would like to move to SQL Server 2005 or 2008, and the Microsoft website says: "The tool can dramatically cut the effort, cost and risk of migrating from MySQL to SQL Server and SQL Azure."

Oracle announced its proposal to buy Sun last year and the deal was sanctioned by the US authorities; however, the EU decided to look into whether there was a conflict of interest in Oracle acquiring MySQL.

The decision concerning whether the EU will give the thumbs-up to Oracle's proposed acquisition of Sun is due before 27 January.