Remote Database Access allows an external server or application to connect to your MySQL database.
By default, databases can only be accessed from the same server for security reasons.

This feature is disabled by default and must be explicitly configured.

What Remote Database Access Is Used For #

Remote access is typically used when:

• Your website or application runs on a different server
• You are connecting to the database from a development environment
• An external service needs database access

For normal Web Hosting or Site Hosting usage, remote access is not required.

How Remote Access Works #

To allow remote access, you must:

• Specify which IP address or hostname is allowed to connect
• Keep database credentials secure
• Use correct permissions

Only the specified addresses will be able to access the database.

Where to Find Remote Database Access in cPanel #

1. Log in to cPanel
2. Go to the Databases section
3. Click Remote MySQL

You may see it listed as Remote MySQL or Remote Database Access, depending on the interface.

Adding a Remote Host #

To allow a remote connection:

1. Enter the external IP address or hostname
2. Click Add Host

Examples:

• 192.0.2.10
• server.example.com

Do not use wildcards unless you fully understand the security risks.

Security Considerations #

Remote database access increases security risks.

You are responsible for:

• Only allowing trusted IP addresses
• Removing unused remote hosts
• Using strong database passwords
• Never exposing credentials publicly

ProRedLine strongly recommends avoiding remote access unless absolutely necessary.

Common Use Cases #

Valid scenarios include:

• External application servers
• Managed development environments
• Data synchronization tools

Invalid or risky scenarios:

• Allowing access from unknown IPs
• Using remote access for shared or public tools
• Leaving remote access enabled permanently without monitoring

Common Issues #

• Connection refused errors
• Incorrect IP address entered
• Database user lacks permissions
• Firewall blocking external connections

These are configuration issues, not hosting failures.

When You Should Not Use Remote Access #

Do not use remote database access if:

• Your website runs on the same hosting server
• You are unsure why it is needed
• A plugin or third party asks for it without clear explanation

In most cases, local database access is safer and faster.