Setting Up Remote Database Access

Setting Up Remote Database Access

By default, MySQL databases on SillyHost can only be accessed from the same server (localhost). If you need to connect to your database from an external application, a different server, or a local development environment, you need to enable remote access.

When You Might Need Remote Access

• Connecting a local development environment to your live database for testing.
• Running a separate application server that needs to access your database.
• Using database management tools like MySQL Workbench or HeidiSQL from your local computer.
• Connecting a mobile app backend to your hosted database.

Adding a Remote Host in cPanel

1. Log in to cPanel and navigate to Remote MySQL in the Databases section.
2. Enter the IP address of the remote computer or server that needs access. You can find your IP address by searching "what is my IP" on Google.
3. Click Add Host.
4. The IP address is now whitelisted and can connect to your databases.

Using a Wildcard

You can use the % wildcard to allow access from a range of IP addresses. For example, 192.168.1.% allows all IPs in the 192.168.1.x range. However, using a full wildcard (%) to allow access from any IP is a significant security risk and is strongly discouraged.

Connecting Remotely

To connect from a remote application, use the following connection details:

• Host – Your server's IP address or hostname (not localhost).
• Port – 3306 (the default MySQL port).
• Username – Your full database username including the cPanel prefix.
• Password – The password for the database user.
• Database – The full database name including the prefix.

Connecting with MySQL Workbench

1. Open MySQL Workbench and click New Connection.
2. Enter the hostname, port, username, and password.
3. Click Test Connection to verify it works.
4. Click OK to save the connection.

Security Recommendations

• Only whitelist specific IP addresses, never use a full wildcard.
• Remove remote access entries when they are no longer needed.
• Use strong passwords for all database users with remote access.
• Consider using an SSH tunnel for encrypted remote connections instead of direct MySQL access.