How to Set Up a Remote MySQL Database Connection in cPanel
Remote database connection allows MySQL databases hosted on your account to be accessed by external servers. This feature in cPanel is especially useful when you want to offload database tasks or centralize database management across multiple servers.
Remote MySQL Database Connection in cPanel
Requirements
To connect remotely, you’ll need:
- A MySQL client (e.g., Navicat, phpMyAdmin, Workbench, or Dreamweaver)
- Your server’s IP address
- Database credentials (name, username, password)
- Port 3306 (default MySQL port)
Configuration Settings
Use the following settings to connect to your database remotely:
- Host Name: Your server’s IP address
- Database Name:
cpanelUsername_databaseName - Username:
cpanelUsername_databaseUsername - Password: The password for the database user
- Port: 3306
- Protocol: TCP or UDP
If you haven’t created your database yet, refer to our guide on creating and deleting MySQL databases.
Remote MySQL Connection
To allow remote access:
- Log in to your Bluehost Portal.
- Click Hosting in the left-hand menu.
- In the hosting details page, click the cPanel button.
- Your cPanel will open in a new tab.
- Navigate to Remote MySQL under the Databases section.
- Enter the IP address of the remote server or device in the Host field.
- Click Add Host.
You can use wildcards (e.g., 192.168.0.%) to allow a range of IPs, but ensure they are secure and under your control.
How can I find out my computer's IP address?
To locate your computer's IP Address, Go to Google and search for 'what is my IP' or go to https://www.google.com/search?q=what+is+my+ip. Google will show your IP Address in the results. Please note this feature is only available in English.
IP Constantly Changes
If your IP changes often, you can either update it in Remote MySQL each time (most secure) or use wildcards. Entering % allows all IPs, while something like 93.138.%.% works if only the last parts of your IP change.
What to Do After Enabling Remote Access
To connect to MySQL remotely, you’ll need to use a third‑party database client. Some tools are free, while others are paid. For a list of recommended applications, please refer to our page:
Remove Remote Access Host
To revoke access:
- Go to Manage Access Hosts.
- Click the trash icon beside the IP you want to remove.
- Confirm by clicking Remove Access Host.
Database Management
Once the IP is whitelisted, use your MySQL client to connect using the credentials found in cPanel’s MySQL Databases section. Common connection issues often stem from incorrect usernames or passwords. Double-check your credentials and ensure port 3306 is open.
Summary
Setting up a Remote MySQL Database Connection in cPanel allows you to manage your databases from anywhere using trusted tools and secure configurations. By following the steps above, you can ensure reliable and secure access to your MySQL databases. For further troubleshooting, check out our related article on MySQL Errors.
If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us via Chat or Phone:
- Chat Support - While on our website, you should see a CHAT bubble in the bottom right-hand corner of the page. Click anywhere on the bubble to begin a chat session.
- Phone Support -
- US: 888-401-4678
- International: +1 801-765-9400
You may also refer to our Knowledge Base articles to help answer common questions and guide you through various setup, configuration, and troubleshooting steps.