How to Upload a Database to a Web Server

MySQL database.

Databases are used on any website that allows visitors to sign up for an account, share content, post information or interact in other ways. If you are moving to a new Web host, have had a system crash or just want to revert back to your previous save point, you will need to know how to upload a database to a Web server.

Instructions

1. 

   Log into the hosting account's control panel. A hosting account allows access to the Web servers managed by the hosting company. The control panel provides access to files, databases and information about your account. If you do not already have a hosting account, open one at Go Daddy, Host Gator or any number of other respectable hosting companies.

2. 

   Scroll down to the "Databases" section on the control panel. Click on the link or icon for "MySQL Databases," then add a new database to the account. This reserves a space on the hosting account where you may upload a copy of your database.

3. 

   Return to the control panel and scroll down to the databases section. Click on the icon marked "phpMyAdmin" to go to the database administration section of the Web server. This is where you will upload your database.

4. 

   On the main screen for phpMyAdmin, look for the link marked "Import". If you have trouble finding it, you can simply click the name of the database on the left side to enter the database, then click the import tab at the top of the screen. However, there should be a link marked import that is available as soon as you log into phpMyAdmin.

5. 

   Select the database file from your computer. You should have a backup or exported copy of the database that you wish to upload. Click the "Browse" button on the phpMyAdmin import screen, then navigate to the database file you wish to upload. Once it has been selected, click the "Go" button to upload and install your database.

Tips & Warnings

• If you need to upload the database because you are moving your Website to a new host, ask the host to move everything for you. Most Web hosts offer a free service for moving your site, including any databases.

Resources

• Go Daddy Web Hosting
• Host Gator Web Hosting
• phpMyAdmin
• MySQL Databases