Can you recommend any MySQL programs similar to MS Management Studio? I'm looking for something with similar functionality.
I had difficulties with encodings while studying MySQL. I would prefer using MS SQL Server, but it requires payment. For my thesis, I need a free alternative.

Using phpMyAdmin is quite outdated, you can easily build your own solution. In my opinion, I can manage it on my own to some extent, although it may not fully rival phpMyAdmin in terms of convenience and speed.
However, creating a custom solution tailored to your specific needs can be more advantageous. It may take some time to refine and improve, but perseverance is key.

phpMyAdmin provides a quick, user-friendly, and intuitive visual interface.

It allows users to easily manage their databases, execute queries, and perform various administrative tasks.

Database.NET is a freely downloadable open source product that allows users to perform various activities related to databases. These activities include editing and deleting databases, as well as importing and exporting data. The exported data can be saved in formats such as CSV, XML, and TXT, and there is also an option for printing tables. The tool also provides a console with syntax highlighting, which is helpful for working with SQL.

MySQL Workbench is specifically designed to work with MySQL-based databases. Developed by Workbench specialists, this tool provides all the necessary features for creating and administering databases. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use, even for beginners. Notably, it offers a template for automated indexing of cells, query processing, and modifying SQL scripts.

Navicat is a comprehensive suite of programs designed for working with DBMS (database management systems). The developer's website offers multiple versions to choose from, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, MariaDB, SQL Server, Oracle, and SQLite. The tool also integrates with various cloud services like AmazonAWS and Google Cloud. To establish connections, users need to provide login credentials and can optionally use SSL, SSH, or HTTP tunnels.

The Navicat interface consists of three main parts: a list of user databases on the left, a space for working with tables in the center, and information on selected objects on the right. It also includes convenient ER diagrams for designing purposes. However, the interface is not available in Russian, but there is a free trial version. Users also have the option to purchase subscriptions for the basic, standard, or commercial versions.

DataExpress is a highly popular program used for creating and managing customer databases. It serves as a flexible constructor, offering a wide range of applications. With DataExpress, users can create their own personalized accounting programs. The tool includes all the modules commonly found in DBMS, such as a data entry wizard, filtering and search options, templates, and automatic value generation.

When it comes to finding a free alternative to MS SQL Server Management Studio, there are several options available that provide similar functionality for MySQL database management.
One highly recommended program is "HeidiSQL," which is an open-source database management tool that allows you to browse and edit data, create and edit tables, views, procedures, and functions, and perform advanced SQL queries. It has a user-friendly interface similar to MS Management Studio and supports various encodings, making it easier to handle character sets and collations.

Another popular choice is "MySQL Workbench," which is an official integrated development environment for MySQL. It provides data modeling, SQL development, and comprehensive administration tools for server configuration, user administration, and backup. MySQL Workbench offers a visual database design tool and SQL coding assistance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

For those who prefer a lightweight and portable solution, "DBeaver" is a universal database tool that supports multiple databases, including MySQL. It offers a rich set of features, such as ER diagrams, SQL editor with syntax highlighting, data export/import, and metadata management. DBeaver is known for its easy installation and wide range of customization options.

In addition, "phpMyAdmin" is a web-based database management tool that can be installed on a web server to manage MySQL databases through a web interface. It provides a convenient way to perform tasks such as database creation, table design, data insertion, and SQL query execution. Although it lacks some of the advanced features of MS Management Studio, phpMyAdmin is widely used for its accessibility and simplicity.
Each of these programs has its own strengths and may cater to different preferences based on your specific needs. Ultimately, exploring and experimenting with these options will help you find the best MySQL program for your thesis project.

One popular option is MySQL Workbench, which provides a comprehensive suite for database design, SQL development, and server administration. Its visual tools make it easy to model databases and execute queries, similar to what you'd find in SSMS.

Another solid choice is HeidiSQL. This lightweight tool is great for managing MySQL databases and offers a user-friendly interface for executing queries and managing data. While it may not have the extensive feature set of Workbench, it's efficient for quick tasks and has a straightforward approach, making it suitable for users who prefer simplicity.

On the flip side, if you're looking for something more robust, you might want to check out DBeaver. It's an open-source universal database tool that supports a variety of databases, including MySQL. DBeaver provides a rich set of features like ER diagrams, data editing, and advanced SQL execution capabilities. The downside? Its interface can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers, which might lead to frustration when you're just trying to get things done.