Editor's Note: We'd like to let you know that starting Nov. 6, this newsletter will be renamed Network World's Linux & Open Source Newsletter. The name change will better reflect the focus of this newsletter, which we hope you will continue to enjoy. Thanks for reading.

Last week, MySQL Enterprise was launched. It's a subscription service to help administrators run the open source MySQL database more smoothly and efficiently.

MySQL AB - the company that supports the open source database - introduced MySQL Enterprise Platinum, an annual subscription service that provides automatic software updates, network monitoring, access to telephone and online support. The update service includes monthly software updates for MySQL databases, and quarterly service packs, which introduce new features and major security patches and bug fixes. A MySQL installation wizard is part of the offering. In the case where a critical system patch is needed, the service can also offer emergency “hot-fix” builds of a MySQL database.

The monitoring and advisory service includes remote monitoring of MySQL database servers by MySQL AB support staff. The monitoring service watches MySQL server activity and triggers alerts to users if certain events occur, or system thresholds are crossed. The service can also monitor to ensure that backup replication and database schema configurations are working properly, the company says.

The support aspect of MySQL Enterprise includes 24/7 telephone and Web support, and access to the MySQL Knowledge Base, a compilation of support documentation.

MySQL Enterprise is available for MySQL databases running on Red Hat Enterprise Linux; SuSE Linux Enterprise Server; Sun Solaris; MacOS X; Microsoft Windows; HP-UX; and several other operating systems. Below the platinum support, MySQL AB is offering Good, Silver and Basic levels of MySQL Enterprise. Price ranges from $600 to $5,000.