🔹 Databases (MySQL)

Databases store your website’s content, user data, and settings. Most CMS platforms like WordPress rely on MySQL databases to function properly.

1️⃣ Creating MySQL Databases

You need a database before installing WordPress or any dynamic website.

Steps in Plesk:

1. Log in to Plesk

2. Go to Websites & Domains

3. Click Databases

4. Click Add Database

5. Enter:

   • Database name

   • Database user

   • Strong password

6. Click OK

📌 Save database credentials safely — they are required during installation.

2️⃣ Using phpMyAdmin

phpMyAdmin is a web-based tool to manage MySQL databases.

Common uses:

• View tables and records

• Edit data manually

• Run SQL queries

• Repair or optimize tables

Accessing phpMyAdmin:

1. Go to Plesk → Databases

2. Click on phpMyAdmin next to your database

📌 Use caution when editing data directly — changes are immediate.

3️⃣ Importing & Exporting Databases

Useful for website migration, backups, or restores.

Export database:

1. Open phpMyAdmin

2. Select database

3. Click Export

4. Choose Quick or Custom

5. Download .sql file

Import database:

1. Open phpMyAdmin

2. Select database

3. Click Import

4. Upload .sql file

5. Click Go

📌 Large databases may require SSH or compressed files.

🔐 Database Best Practices

• Use strong database passwords

• Avoid using root database access

• Backup databases regularly

• Clean unused tables for performance