MySQL on proprietary Linux distributions?

[zratis]

Hello,

I wanted to find out what MySQL administrators think about MySQL
installation on RedHat and other Linux distributions with the use of
RPM. RedHat reallocates all MySQL files into different places in the
file system. Is it easier to learn MySQL administration on a non-RPM
MySQL installation? Are the standards that are used in books,
articles and guides more relevant to non-RPM installations? I get a
sense that it's better to learn MySQL administration on a
non-RH/non-RPM install, or any other system that doesn't allocate
MySQL files in different places in the file system.

Also, is it OK to install MySQL on RedHat system without the use of
RPM? Are there any disadvantages?

Thanks,
zratis