make sure you have download all the source code, dependency code for the platform you are using. And check README/INSTALL mannual carefully. Follwoing the instruction on those manual, When have problem, use google search for solusion.
which way do u want? I assume that you are working on application but not mysql hacker.
If it is your first time use mysql, i suggest the first one. After a while, when you need extra feature that doesn't include in the pre-compile package, u can make your own compilation.
As I know, mysql is pretty simple(I just use pre-compile package). I did compile php several time to fit my requirement.
Have fun.
which way do u want? I assume that you are working on application but not mysql hacker.
If it is your first time use mysql, i suggest the first one. After a while, when you need extra feature that doesn't include in the pre-compile package, u can make your own compilation.
As I know, mysql is pretty simple(I just use pre-compile package). I did compile php several time to fit my requirement.
Have fun.