How to Enable Remote MySQL Access
By default databases only accept connections from the same server (localhost). Remote MySQL lets a trusted external host connect — useful for external apps or analytics.
Step-by-step
- Find the connecting host's IP address — the external server or computer that needs access.
- Open Databases → Remote MySQL in cPanel.
- Enter the IP (host) in the Add Access Host box.
- Add a comment noting what it is for, then click Add Host.
- Connect from the remote app using your server's hostname (not localhost), the database name, user and password.
- Remove access hosts you no longer need to keep the database locked down.
💡 Good to know
- Add specific IPs only — never use the % wildcard to allow any host, which is a serious risk.
- Most apps on the same hosting use localhost and do not need Remote MySQL at all.
- Keep the access list short and reviewed — each entry is a potential entry point.