Can't run MySQL from command prompt

Question

I downloaded MySQL 5.6.25 for Windowsx64 and I tried to run the command

mysql -uroot -p

to start using MySQL but it says

'mysql' is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file.

Do I need to move MySQL to some other place? It is currently on the desktop.

EDIT: I downloaded Xampp but now when I run that same command I get this: enter image description here

Another solution would be running the command within the mysql's folder installation. — Eric Martinez, Jun 12 '15 at 22:09
are you sure it is not already running in the background on port 3306. look at task mgr / services / MySQL56 — Drew, Jun 12 '15 at 22:10
just use a pack like xampp or something to install it. Much easier than installing configuring yourself. also note that you need a space between `-u` and `root` — RisingSun, Jun 12 '15 at 22:13
realize that mysql is a dll and service that runs on windows. it is not a program you run at a DOS prompt — Drew, Jun 12 '15 at 22:31
@twentylemon I downloaded xampp but I have an error see my edit — noobProgrammer, Jun 13 '15 at 02:22
generally the default install doesn't use a password. `mysql -u root` should work fine. if not, try not entering any password when it prompts — twentylemon, Jun 13 '15 at 02:26
@twentylemon Oh it works now! Thank you. The book I was reading said to enter a password but it was using DOS prompt. — noobProgrammer, Jun 13 '15 at 02:27

BK435 · Accepted Answer · 2015-06-12T22:44:00.313

You need to place mysql in your environment variable PATH in order to run it from the command prompt, if you are not in bin directory of mysql.

On windows 7 (should be similar for 8):

go to control panel>system
on left hand side you should see Advanced system settings>double click on that
At bottom of system properties you should see Environment Variables
scroll down in the bottom panel till you see PATH click on it
then click EDIT button underneath>opens new window Edit system variables
at the end add your path to your mysql installation bin folder like C:\mysql\mysql5.6.23\bin; (must separate by ;).

enter image description here

1 Answers1