Mastering PHP and MySQL: A Beginner’s Guide to Connecting Scripts

For those new to website development, learning how to connect PHP scripts to a MySQL database is a crucial skill. This allows you to view, modify, and manage data efficiently.

Why Connect PHP to MySQL?

Connecting PHP to MySQL empowers developers to interact directly with the database, facilitating efficient data management. Whether you are setting up a blog, an e-commerce site, or a personal portfolio, knowing how to connect these two powerful tools is essential.

Creating a MySQL Database (Optional)

If you don’t already have a MySQL database, creating one is your first step. For Hostinger users, this is straightforward via the hPanel:

Navigate to the MySQL Databases menu under the Databases section.
Fill in the necessary fields and click Create.

Remember to note down your database credentials for future use.

Two Methods for Connecting PHP to MySQL

PHP offers two primary extensions for connecting to MySQL: MySQLi and PDO. Understanding the differences will help you choose the best one for your project.

MySQLi (MySQL Improved)

MySQLi is a MySQL-exclusive extension that supports both procedural and object-oriented programming. It offers advanced features like prepared statements, which enhance security and efficiency.

PHP Data Objects (PDO)

PDO is an object-oriented extension that supports multiple database types, including MySQL, MSSQL, and PostgreSQL. It is recommended for projects requiring cross-database compatibility.

Using MySQLi to Connect PHP to MySQL

Follow these steps to set up a connection using MySQLi:

Navigate to File Manager -> public_html.
Create a new file named databaseconnect.php.
Paste the following code, replacing placeholders with your database credentials:

MySQLi Code Explained

The function mysqli_connect() establishes a new connection to the MySQL server. If unsuccessful, the script terminates with an error message. Successful connections print “Connected successfully.”

Using PDO to Connect PHP to MySQL

To use PDO, create two files:

In public_html, create a file named pdoconfig.php and add your database details:

Create another file named databaseconnect.php with the following code:

getMessage()); } ?>

PDO Code Explained

PDO connections require a DSN, username, and password. The try...catch block handles connection attempts and errors, allowing for graceful failure messages.

Checking Connectivity and Troubleshooting

Access your domain to test the connection, e.g., yourdomain/databaseconnect.php. A successful connection displays a confirmation message.

Incorrect Password Error

This error arises from credential mismatches. Double-check your database details for typos or omissions.

Cannot Connect to MySQL Server

Errors like “Can’t connect to MySQL server” indicate server recognition issues. Ensure the server name matches your setup, typically “localhost” for local servers.

Take Your PHP and MySQL Skills Further

Ready to dive deeper into PHP and MySQL? Explore resources on Hostinger for more tutorials and support.

Conclusion

Connecting PHP scripts to a MySQL database is a foundational skill in web development. By mastering MySQLi and PDO, you can enhance your data management capabilities and build dynamic, data-driven websites. If you encounter any issues, feel free to ask for help in the comments below.

Starter-Pack HTML Section

Dec 22, 2023
Domantas G.
6min Read
For beginners in website development, understanding how to use PHP scripts to connect to MySQL can be highly advantageous. This enables you to modify, view, or manage the tables within the MySQL database. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simplest methods to achieve this. Let’s get started!

Creating a MySQL Database (Optional)
Two Ways a PHP Script can Connect to MySQL
Using MySQLi to Connect a PHP Script to MySQLMySQLi Code Explained
MySQLi Code Explained
Using PDO to Connect a PHP Script to MySQLPDO Code Explained
PDO Code Explained
Checking Connectivity and Troubleshooting Common ErrorsIncorrect Password ErrorCannot Connect to MySQL Server
Incorrect Password Error
Cannot Connect to MySQL Server
MySQLi Code Explained
PDO Code Explained
Incorrect Password Error
Cannot Connect to MySQL Server

Domantas G.
Domantas leads the content and SEO teams forward with fresh ideas and out of the box approaches. Armed with extensive SEO and marketing knowledge, he aims to spread the word of <a href=”https://hostinger.com?REFERRALCODE=1CRYPTO99″ rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Hostinger</a> to every corner of the world. During his free time, Domantas likes to hone his web development skills and travel to exotic places.

👉 Start your website with Hostinger – get fast, secure hosting here 👈