Managing
How do I create a database?
Databases can be created in the DreamHost panel only. Databases cannot be created via SSH or phpMyAdmin. View the following article for further details:
Is there a limit to how many databases I can create?
You can create as many databases as you would like for most hosting services, subject to DreamHost's Unlimited Policy. The only exceptions are the Shared Starter plan (where the limit is 5 databases) and DreamPress plans (where the limit is 1 database).
Where can I view the MySQL logs?
Unfortunately, logs are not available for shared MySQL. However, if you have upgraded to a MySQL VPS, support can retrieve the logs for you. Just submit a support ticket in your panel requesting this.
Is database encryption supported?
Database encryption is not provided by DreamHost. Please note that if you plan on creating a custom solution to encrypt your database and require root/sudo access to the database server, you would need to purchase a Dedicated Server or DreamCompute. Only on those plans would you have direct access to the database.
Backing up
Do you provide long-term backups for my databases?
Long-term backups for databases are not available. DreamHost only provides 5 days' worth of database backups and these are not guaranteed. It’s highly recommended to continually back up your databases locally.
How can I backup my databases myself?
Backing up databases can be done via Shell or phpMyAdmin. Instructions can be found in the following article:
My domain is no longer pointed to your DNS or it has expired. How can I backup my database?
If you have a Shell user, you can log into your web server via SSH and perform a mysqldump. Once you’ve completed the backup, you can log into your web server via FTP to download the backup file.
Can I use my FTP user to access a database?
No. Domain users such as Shell, SFTP, and FTP are isolated from your database users. Additionally, database access is only available on a Dedicated Server.
Specs and permissions
Do I have root/sudo access to this MySQL VPS server?
No. The MySQL VPS is still a managed service so access to the server is unavailable. Only on a Dedicated Server would you have access since the databases are hosted locally on that same machine.
Do database users have all privileges on the database?
Not all privileges are available. View the following article for a current list:
Can I provide limited access to other users of my database?
Yes. You can create multiple users to access the database and set their privileges. View the following article for details:
Accessing
I have my domain pointed to another host's nameservers, but the domain is pointed to my DreamHost A record. Why am I not able to access the database via phpMyAdmin?
There is a DNS A record for the actual database mysql hostname in addition to the website’s A records. Just like the domain, you must add that A record as well for the database hostname to work.
View the following article for instructions on how to locate your DreamHost mysql A record. You can then contact your current hosting company to add it to their system.
Can I access my database via IP?
No. You cannot use the IP as an alternative to the hostname.
General
Can I update the MySQL version?
No.
How do I import my database backup?
You can do this with a Shell user via SSH or phpMyAdmin. View the following article for details:
What available services do you have for databases?
All hosting services come with a shared MySQL server. You also have the option to upgrade to a private database server in your panel. View the following article for details:
Why is my database hostname not working?
Several factors can cause this issue:
- The domain is not pointed to DreamHost’s DNS
- The domain is not fully hosted in the panel
- The domain registration has expired