How to Create and Manage MySQL Databases in cPanel

Introduction

Databases are the backbone of dynamic websites and applications. Platforms like WordPress, Magento, and Joomla store data — such as user information, content, and settings — in MySQL databases. With cPanel, you can easily create, manage, and connect databases using simple point-and-click tools.

This article will guide you through the process of creating MySQL databases and users, and managing them using phpMyAdmin.

️ Step 1: Create a MySQL Database

1. Log in to your cPanel

2. Scroll to the Databases section

3. Click on MySQL® Databases

4. Under Create New Database, enter a database name

   • Example: yourcpaneluser_dbname

5. Click Create Database

Your database is now created!

Step 2: Create a Database User

1. On the same page, scroll down to MySQL Users

2. Enter a username and secure password

3. Click Create User

This creates a user that can connect to your database.

Step 3: Add User to Database

1. In the section Add User to Database, select:

   • The user you just created

   • The database you created

2. Click Add

3. On the next screen, choose the privileges for the user:

   • Select All Privileges for full access

4. Click Make Changes

Your user is now linked to the database and ready to use.

Step 4: Access phpMyAdmin to Manage Data

phpMyAdmin is a web-based interface for managing database content.

1. Go back to cPanel home

2. Click phpMyAdmin under Databases

3. Select your database from the left sidebar

4. You can now:

   • View and edit tables

   • Import or export data (.sql files)

   • Run SQL queries

   • Delete or modify records

Common Use Cases

• Installations like WordPress automatically create tables in your MySQL database

• You can import backups using the Import tab in phpMyAdmin

• Developers can use phpMyAdmin to debug or test queries manually

️ Security Tips

• Use strong passwords for all database users

• Avoid sharing database credentials

• Delete unused databases and users

• Do not use the default root user for applications

• Backup your database regularly from cPanel or phpMyAdmin

✅ Conclusion

Managing MySQL databases with cPanel is simple, even for non-developers. Whether you're building a CMS-driven website or a custom app, cPanel provides all the tools you need to securely create, connect, and manage your databases.