How to Duplicate and Manage MySQL Databases in cPanel

**Description:**This guide provides a step-by-step process for duplicating (copying) and managing MySQL databases in cPanel. It’s designed for Brixly shared hosting customers who want to create safe database copies for development, testing, or backup purposes—using only tools available within your cPanel account.

Introduction
Before You Start
Step 1: Export the Original Database via phpMyAdmin
Step 2: Create a New (Empty) Database in cPanel
Step 3: Import the SQL File into the New Database
Step 4: Update Application Configuration (If Needed)
Managing MySQL Databases in cPanel
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
Summary

Introduction

Duplicating a MySQL database is a common task for website owners who want to:

Set up a development or staging environment
Test new features or plugins safely
Create manual backups

You don’t need server admin access—everything can be done using cPanel and its built-in tools.

Before You Start

Requirements:

Access to your hosting account’s cPanel
Sufficient disk space for the database copy
Your cPanel MySQL username and password

Tip: If your database is large (over 100MB), consider exporting/importing in smaller chunks or contact support for advice.

Step 1: Export the Original Database via phpMyAdmin

Log in to cPanel.
Go to the Databases section and click phpMyAdmin.
In the left sidebar, select the database you wish to duplicate.
Click the Export tab at the top.
Choose the Quick export method and SQL format.
Click Go.This will download a .sql file to your computer.

*Example:*If your database is called cpaneluser_live, you will download something like cpaneluser_live.sql.

Step 2: Create a New (Empty) Database in cPanel

Return to the main cPanel dashboard.
Under the Databases section, select MySQL Databases.
Under Create New Database, enter a name (e.g., cpaneluser_dev) and click Create Database.
Scroll down to MySQL Users and either:
- Create a new user (recommended for testing/dev)
- Or, use your existing MySQL user
Assign the user to the new database:
- In Add User to Database, select the user and database, then click Add.
- On the next screen, select ALL PRIVILEGES and click Make Changes.

Step 3: Import the SQL File into the New Database

Go back to phpMyAdmin via cPanel.
In the left sidebar, click on your new (empty) database.
Click the Import tab at the top.
Click Choose File and select the .sql file you exported earlier.
Leave all settings as default and click Go.

If the import is successful, you’ll see a confirmation message.

Step 4: Update Application Configuration (If Needed)

If you want your website or application to use the duplicated database (e.g., for a development site):

Edit your app’s configuration file (commonly wp-config.php for WordPress, .env for Laravel, or config.php).
Update the database name, user, and password to match the new database.

Example for WordPress (wp-config.php):

define('DB_NAME', 'cpaneluser_dev');
define('DB_USER', 'cpaneluser_newuser');
define('DB_PASSWORD', 'your_new_password');
define('DB_HOST', 'localhost');

Managing MySQL Databases in cPanel

**Check/Repair Databases:**In MySQL Databases, use the Check Database and Repair Database tools if you suspect data corruption.
**Delete Unused Databases:**Remove test databases you no longer need to free up space.
**Manage User Privileges:**Always assign only the required privileges to users for better security.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Import Fails Due to Size or Timeout

Try splitting the .sql file if it’s very large.
Use a faster internet connection or different browser.
If you see repeated failures, consider contacting support for assistance.

Access Denied or Privilege Errors

Double-check the user is assigned to the new database with all privileges.
Re-enter the password in your app’s config file.

“Unknown Database” or “Table Not Found” Errors

Ensure you imported into the correct, empty database.
Verify the configuration file matches the new database and user details exactly.

Summary

Duplicating a MySQL database in cPanel is a straightforward process:

Export your current database with phpMyAdmin
Create a new database via cPanel
Import the SQL file into the new database
Update any application configuration files as needed

Using cPanel’s built-in tools ensures your data stays secure and you remain in control—no server admin access required. If you need further help, our support team is here to assist!

*For more guides and support, visit the *Brixly Knowledge Base.

How to Duplicate and Manage MySQL Databases in cPanel