How to Resolve Common Database Connection Errors

Database connection errors can cause your website to stop functioning properly, often displaying messages like “Error establishing a database connection.” This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve these common issues in Plesk.

Step 1: Identify the Error #

1. Check the error message displayed on your website. Common messages include:
   • “Error establishing a database connection.”
   • “Database connection failed.”
   • “Access denied for user ‘username’@’localhost’.”
2. Note down the error for reference.

Step 2: Verify Database Credentials #

1. Log in to your Plesk dashboard.
2. Navigate to Databases under the Websites & Domains section.
3. Locate the database associated with your website.
4. Click on the database name to view its credentials (username, database name).
5. Compare these credentials with the ones in your website’s configuration file:
   • For WordPress: Check the wp-config.php file in the File Manager.
   • Look for the following lines:
     define(‘DB_NAME’, ‘your_database_name’);
     define(‘DB_USER’, ‘your_username’);
     define(‘DB_PASSWORD’, ‘your_password’);
     define(‘DB_HOST’, ‘localhost’);

Step 3: Test Database Connectivity #

1. Use phpMyAdmin to check if the database is accessible:
   • In the Databases section, click Webadmin next to your database.
   • Log in using the database username and password.
2. If you cannot access the database, the credentials may be incorrect or the database server may be down.

Step 4: Reset Database User Password (If Necessary) #

1. In the Databases section, click on the database username under the associated database.
2. Reset the password and update it in your website’s configuration file (e.g., wp-config.php).
3. Save the changes and try accessing your website again.

Step 5: Check Database Server Status #

1. Ensure that the database server (MySQL/MariaDB) is running:
   • This is typically managed by the hosting provider. If you suspect the server is down, contact hosting support.
2. If you have server access, restart the database server via the control panel or command line.

Step 6: Verify Disk Space #

1. Go to Statistics in the Plesk dashboard.
2. Ensure there is enough disk space available for your database to operate.
3. Free up space by deleting unnecessary files or clearing logs.

Step 7: Repair the Database #

1. In the Databases section, click on the database name.
2. Select the Check and Repair Database option.
3. Plesk will automatically check for and fix any issues in the database.

Tips #

• Always back up your database before making significant changes.
• Use strong passwords for database users to enhance security.
• Regularly monitor your database size to prevent exceeding hosting limits.