MySQL 7.4 is the latest version of one of the most popular open source relational database management systems (RDBMS). It is the backbone of many web applications and has been used by millions of people for years. MySQL 7.4 features a wide range of improvements and new features, making it even more powerful and easier to use.

The most significant improvement to MySQL 7.4 is its enhanced scalability. The new database supports multi-master replication, allowing for a better control over the distribution of data across multiple nodes. In addition, sharding is now available, which allows you to divide your database into multiple partitions and store each partition on a different node. This improves performance and allows for efficient parallel processing of queries.

Another significant change in MySQL 7.4 is its improved performance. The major performance gain comes from the new query optimizer, which uses heuristics to improve the performance of complex queries. Of note is that it can now properly handle JOINs, subqueries and other common query patterns, resulting in a faster response time.

Also, MySQL 7.4 introduces a new security feature called Data Protection. This feature enables users to encrypt their data in transit and at rest, providing an extra layer of protection against malicious attacks. Data Protection also supports authentication and authorization, allowing users to control which data can be accessed and by whom.

Additionally, MySQL 7.4 includes a number of other performance and security related changes, such as new resource-related functions, improved logging, better transaction management, and enhanced data dictionary functions.

Finally, MySQL 7.4 comes with a number of helpful tools and utilities, such as the MySQL Workbench and the MySQL Shell. These tools allow users to quickly and easily manage their MySQL databases.

Overall, MySQL 7.4 is an excellent upgrade for any user who is looking for a powerful, secure and easy-to-use database. It provides scalability, performance and security improvements, and it comes with a number of helpful tools and utilities.