Website Databases Explained: MySQL and MariaDB

What does a website database do?

A database stores structured information used by a website or application. WordPress stores posts, pages, settings and users in a database, while images, themes and plugins are usually files. MySQL and MariaDB are common relational database systems; availability depends on your hosting plan.

Database, user and password

• Database: stores the site's data.
• Database user: an account permitted to access it.
• Password: authenticates that user.

Your application needs the correct database name, username, password and server hostname. Some providers add an account prefix to database names and usernames.

Create and configure a database

1. Open the database section of your hosting panel.
2. Create a database and a dedicated user, if supported.
3. Grant only the permissions the application needs.
4. Enter the connection details in the application configuration.
5. Back up existing data before importing, deleting or changing it.

Some panels require you to assign the user to the database separately. Creating a user alone may not grant access.

Management tools and common errors

Your provider may offer phpMyAdmin to view tables, run SQL queries, and import or export data. Use it carefully: destructive queries or incorrect imports can damage the site or overwrite data.

• Access denied: check username, password and privileges.
• Unknown database: check the database name and prefix.
• Connection refused or timed out: verify hostname and remote access settings.
• Website database error: confirm application settings and service status.

Never share database passwords. For support, provide the exact error and application name with secrets removed.

Related guides

• Create a MySQL database and user in cPanel
• Import or export a database with phpMyAdmin