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Most modern websites use databases to store information and content for the site. This allows users to edit and make changes directly through a CMS (Content Management System), rather than modifying code or editing the HTML pages themselves. However, before a CMS can function, a database must be created for it to connect to.
 
Below are instructions on how to create a database through our web hosting control panel.
 
Login into your web hosting control panel. If you are unsure how to do that, follow the instructions listed here.
 
Once you have logged in:
  1. In the left hand menu, click on "Databases"
  2. Click on "Add Database"
  3. Enter the database name. This can be anything, but good to name it something that is relative to your website for easy management.
  4. Depending on what server you are on, will determine if you want a MSSQL or MySQL server.
    1. On a Windows server, you can select MSSQL or MySQL from the Database Server drop‑down menu.
  5. Related site: select your site from the drop-down menu
  6. Users.
    1. If you are creating a new database, make sure the "Create a database user" is selected.
    2. Enter a database user name and password. Remember to write these down elsewhere as you will need this information to connect your site too.
    3. You can leave the option to access all databases unticked.
  7. Click on "Create Database"
  8. You will see a success message and will be returned to the Database page, showing the newly created database.

With the database name, username, and password, you will need to enter these details into your website’s configuration file so it can connect to the database. The exact file and location will vary depending on the CMS you are using, but below are the configuration files for the most common platforms.

  • WordPress - wp-config.php
  • Joomla - configuration.php
  • Concrete5 - /application/config/database.php or /concrete/config/database.php
  • Drupal - /sites/default/settings.php
  • OpenCart - config.php or /admin/config.php
  • PhpBB forums - config.php

To remove a database, go to the "Databases" page. On the far right of the database you want to delete, you will see a rubbish‑bin icon. Click on that icon, and you will be asked to confirm by selecting “Yes.” After confirming, a success message will appear indicating that the database has been removed.

Disclaimer: 

The configuration file names and locations referenced in this guide are accurate at the time of writing. These paths may change in future versions of each CMS as their developers update or restructure core files. Always refer to the official documentation for the specific CMS version you are working with to ensure the most current and accurate information.

Get in touch

For any additional help, give us a call on 0800 477 333 (8AM to 10PM, 7 days a week).

Keywords: Database, MySQL, MSSQL, DB

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