Import an SQL Database with phpMyAdmin

Web hosting · 5 min read

1. Check the file and destination

Identify the source database, date and SQL format. A WordPress XML export is not an SQL backup. Keep an untouched copy. Imports can replace tables; back up the destination and preferably use a fresh database for migration.

2. Open database management

In DirectAdmin, select the domain and look for Account Manager → MySQL Management or Databases, depending on the theme. Create a database and user if needed, retaining their full names. Open the provided phpMyAdmin link; ask support if unavailable.

3. Select the correct database

In phpMyAdmin, select the target database in the left column. Confirm its name before opening Import. Do not import into a live database selected by default. Check that the user has appropriate privileges.

4. Import the SQL file

Choose the .sql file or a supported compressed format, leave SQL selected and start importing. Wait for the result. If file size exceeds the displayed limit or processing stops, request a suitable method instead of repeatedly importing partial data.

5. Connect and test the application

Check tables and the success message. For WordPress, confirm DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD and DB_HOST in wp-config.php, plus the table prefix. Test pages, login and main functions. Keep credentials private.

6. Handle migration differences

A changed address may require URL updates that preserve serialised data. Avoid blanket text replacements in SQL. For a shop, coordinate files and database at the same recovery point and protect recent orders before switching.