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How to find database connection string

If you need to find your WordPress site's database connection information (host, database name, username, and password), you can retrieve these credentials even though remote database connections are not supported.

Why you might need this​

You may need your database connection string for:

  • Troubleshooting database-related issues
  • Understanding your site's configuration
  • Documentation purposes
  • Migration planning

How to find database credentials​

Although you can't connect to the database remotely, you can display your site's database credentials by creating a temporary PHP file. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Connect via SFTP​

  1. Connect to your WordPress Hosting Pro file system using an SFTP client (like FileZilla, Cyberduck, or WinSCP).
  2. Navigate to your site's root directory (usually the public_html or www folder).

Step 2: Create a temporary PHP file​

  1. Create a new file on your local computer with a name like db-info.php.
  2. Add the following code to the file:
<?php
echo "Database Host: " . DB_HOST . "<br>";
echo "Database Name: " . DB_NAME . "<br>";
echo "Database User: " . DB_USER . "<br>";
echo "Database Password: " . DB_PASSWORD . "<br>";
?>
  1. Upload this file to your site's root directory via SFTP.

Step 3: View the credentials​

  1. Open your web browser.
  2. Navigate to the file using your domain name, for example: http://yourdomain.com/db-info.php
  3. The page will display your database connection information.

Step 4: Delete the file (Important!)​

warning

This file exposes sensitive database credentials. You must delete it immediately after viewing the information to protect your site's security.

  1. Return to your SFTP client.
  2. Delete the db-info.php file from your server.
  3. Verify the file has been removed.

Important notes​

  • Remote connections not supported: WordPress Hosting Pro databases are isolated in a secure network and cannot be accessed remotely using tools like MySQL Workbench or other database clients.
  • Use phpMyAdmin instead: For database management, use phpMyAdmin through the WordPress Hosting Pro dashboard under Advanced Tools.
  • Keep credentials secure: Never share your database credentials publicly or commit them to version control systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)​

Can I use these credentials to connect to the database remotely?

No. WordPress Hosting Pro databases are isolated in a secure network and cannot be accessed remotely. Even with the connection credentials, remote database tools like MySQL Workbench will not work. Use phpMyAdmin through the WordPress Hosting Pro dashboard under Advanced Tools for database management.

What if I forget to delete the PHP file?

If you forget to delete the file, it remains accessible on your website and exposes your database credentials to anyone who knows the filename. This is a serious security risk. Delete it immediately via SFTP. If you're concerned the file may have been accessed, consider changing your database password through phpMyAdmin.

Is there another way to find my database credentials?

The database credentials are stored in your WordPress configuration file (wp-config.php). However, accessing them through a temporary PHP file is the safest method as it doesn't require editing core WordPress files. You can also view them in wp-config.php via SFTP, but be careful not to modify this file accidentally.

Can I use these credentials with phpMyAdmin?

You don't need these credentials to use phpMyAdmin. phpMyAdmin is accessed directly through the WordPress Hosting Pro dashboard under Advanced Tools and automatically connects to your database using the correct credentials. See What is phpMyAdmin? for more information.