MySQL - Views Part 1: Introduction to Views

A View in MySQL is a virtual table that does not store data but displays the result of a predefined SQL query. It acts as a layer of abstraction to simplify querying and improve database design.

Benefits of Views:

Simplifies complex queries.

Enhances data security by restricting access to specific columns or rows.

Allows easy modification of database schema without affecting applications.

Example 1: Creating a View

CREATE VIEW EmployeeInfo AS

SELECT name, department, salary

FROM employees;

The EmployeeInfo view displays only the name, department, and salary columns from the employee's table.

Example 2: Querying a View

SELECT * FROM EmployeeInfo;

Example 3: Filtering Data in a View

CREATE VIEW HighSalary AS

SELECT name, salary

FROM employees

WHERE salary > 50000;

Explanation:

The HighSalary view retrieves only employees earning more than 50,000. Views are particularly useful for simplifying repetitive queries.