How To Fix The Error Establishing A Database Connection In WordPress

One of the most common reasons why the database connection error happens is because there are incorrect database credentials. If you’ve recently moved hosts, this is probably the reason.

So, use an FTP client like Filezilla and then open up the wp-config.php file.

Look for the following lines of code:

// ** MySQL settings - You can get this info from your web host ** //
/** The name of the database for WordPress */
define( 'DB_NAME', 'database_name_here' );
/** MySQL database username */
define( 'DB_USER', 'username_here' );
/** MySQL database password */
define( 'DB_PASSWORD', 'password_here' );
/** MySQL hostname */
define( 'DB_HOST', 'localhost' );

Check the settings of this with the details stored with your host; especially the database name, username, password and database host. If they’re incorrect, change them, save the file and this should resolve the issue.

If this isn’t the problem with your website, you need to continue on with the steps below.

Most hosting companies will use localhost as the database host. However, some do not. If this is the case, then you need to check with your host what the correct value is. Enter in the correct database into the right field on the wp-config.php file.

Afterwards, check your website. If that was the problem, it should now work.

Sometimes you might see the error

‘One or more database tables are unavailable. The database may need to be repaired.’

To repair your database, add the following code to your wp-config.php file. Ensure it is done before the final line

define('WP_ALLOW_REPAIR', true);

Once done, visit the page http://www.yoursite.com/wp-admin/maint/repair.php and repair the database. After you’ve completed repairs, remove the line

define('WP_ALLOW_REPAIR', true);

from the wp-config.php file so other users can’t corrupt your database.

Another common issue is that the database server is offline. To check this, call up your hosting provider and ask. If it is down, they will solve the problem for you. Or they might have another solution by looking at your website.