How to Find Your MySQL Database Credentials

Guidance on locating the connection details for your MySQL database based on common hosting scenarios.

What You'll Need:

  • Hostname (or Server Address): The server address (e.g., IP, domain name).
  • Port: The network port (default: 3306).
  • Database Name: The specific database to connect to.
  • Username: The user account with database access permissions.
  • Password: The password for the specified Username.

Where to Look Based on Your Setup:

Cloud Database Service

(e.g., AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, Azure, DigitalOcean Managed Databases)

  • Log in to your cloud provider's console (AWS, GCP, Azure, DO).
  • Navigate to the database service section (RDS, Cloud SQL, etc.) and find your specific database instance.
  • Look for sections like "Endpoints," "Connection Details," "Connectivity."
  • You'll typically find the Hostname, Port, Database Name (or specify it), and Username (often "Master Username").
  • The Password was set during setup. Use the provider's reset mechanism if forgotten.
  • Important: Check firewall/security group settings to ensure our service can connect (you might need to allowlist our IP if provided).
  • Helpful Links:

Web Hosting with Control Panel

(e.g., cPanel, Plesk)

  • Log in to your hosting control panel.
  • Find sections like "MySQL Databases" or "Databases."
  • Your Database Names and associated Usernames should be listed.
  • The Hostname is often localhost, but *verify* with your host's documentation.
  • The Port is usually 3306.
  • The Password was set when creating the database user. Use the panel's tools to change it if needed.
  • Important: You might need to enable "Remote MySQL" or add our IP address to an access list. Check host docs.
  • Helpful Links:

Self-Hosted / Custom Server

(e.g., VPS, Dedicated Server, On-Premise)

  • Ask the developer, sysadmin, or DevOps person who manages the server.
  • Check application configuration files (e.g., .env, config.php, settings.py) for connection strings/details (handle with care!).
  • Check the MySQL configuration file (my.cnf or my.ini) for bind-address and port.
  • Refer to any installation notes or documentation.
  • Passwords may need to be reset by an administrator if lost.
  • Helpful Links:

Using a Database Management Tool

(e.g., phpMyAdmin, DBeaver, TablePlus, Sequel Pro/Ace)

  • Open your database tool.
  • Look for "Manage Connections," "Edit Connection," or similar options.
  • The saved connection settings will show the Hostname, Port, Username, and possibly Database Name used previously.
  • The password might be masked or stored in your system's keychain.

Still Stuck?

If you can't find the details, please contact the person/team managing your application/database, your hosting provider support, or your IT department/administrator.