Many websites and applications require a MySQL database to store information such as website content, user accounts, settings, and orders.

This guide explains how to create a MySQL database in DirectAdmin.

Before You Start

Before creating a database, make sure:

• You can log into DirectAdmin
• Your hosting account supports MySQL databases
• You know which application or website will use the database

If you have not logged in yet, please see:

• How to Log Into DirectAdmin

What Is a MySQL Database?

A MySQL database stores website information for applications such as:

• WordPress
• Joomla
• Magento
• Online stores
• Custom PHP websites

Without a database, many modern websites cannot function properly.

How to Create a MySQL Database

Step 1 — Log Into DirectAdmin

Open your browser and visit:  https://cp.yourdomain.co.za  (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name)

Enter your hosting username and password.

Step 2 — Open MySQL Management

From the DirectAdmin dashboard:

Click:   Account Manager

Then click:   MySQL Management

Step 3 — Click Create New Database

Click:  Create New Database

Step 4 — Enter Database Details

You will need to create:

• Database Name
• Database Username
• Database Password

Example Database Details

Example values:

Database Name: website_db
Database Username: website_user

Create a strong password for the database user.

Step 5 — Create the Database

Click:  Create Database

DirectAdmin will now create:

• the database
• the database user
• user permissions

Important Database Information

After creation, save the following details safely:

• Database Name
• Database Username
• Database Password
• Database Hostname

These details are normally required when:

• installing WordPress
• configuring applications
• restoring websites

Database Hostname

In most cases, the database hostname is:    localhost

Accessing phpMyAdmin

phpMyAdmin allows you to manage your databases using your browser.

From DirectAdmin:

Click:  phpMyAdmin

You can then:

• browse tables
• import databases
• export backups
• run SQL queries

Common Uses for Databases

Databases are commonly used for:

• WordPress websites
• eCommerce stores
• Contact forms
• Membership systems
• Booking systems
• Customer portals

Helpful Tips

Keep Database Passwords Safe

Database passwords are sensitive information.

Never share them publicly.

Use Strong Passwords

Weak database passwords can create security risks.

Use:

• uppercase letters
• lowercase letters
• numbers
• symbols

Keep Backups

Always keep backups before:

• making major website changes
• importing databases
• updating applications

Troubleshooting

Database Creation Failed

Possible causes include:

• database limits reached
• invalid database name
• insufficient permissions
• temporary server issue

If the problem continues, contact HostworX support.

Cannot Connect to Database

Check:

• database name
• username
• password
• hostname

Most applications require exact database details.

Access Denied Errors

This usually means:

• incorrect password
• incorrect username
• insufficient permissions

Recheck all database settings carefully.

phpMyAdmin Does Not Open

Possible causes include:

• session timeout
• browser cache issues
• temporary server issue

Try logging out and back into DirectAdmin.

Security Tips

• Use strong database passwords
• Remove unused databases
• Keep backups regularly
• Keep applications updated
• Avoid sharing database credentials