“ERROR: Database Failed to Connect” is a technical issue that occurs when your WordPress site can’t link to and retrieve data from the database. Hence, it can cause malfunctions or site downtime.
The majority of reasons for this error occur in misconfiguration, the wrong database, credentials that didn’t work, and corrupted core files.
CAUSES
Several common causes for “Error Establishing a Database Connection” in WordPress include:
1. Our error in the wp-config database login credentials: The WordPress database is related to the web service of your web host. The old credentials in your configuration files will be now invalid since they have been changed to a new MySQL database password and username.
2. Corrupted database: Poor coding or unfriendly scripts as well as themes that prove incompatible can result in the corruption of database tables’ content.
3. Database server error: An infrastructural issue with your web host may cause the database error message. For example, the back-end may fail when many users request access to your app simultaneously or when your app is facing permission issues.
4. Core file corruption: The core WordPress files are the backbone of your site and boost its functionality. Corrupted plugins and themes’ data can appear after the faulty code manifests, which can lead to database crossing out.
By pointing us to the source of the problem, the pop-up message may be useful. Say, the on-screen message reads thus: your WordPress website’s admin control panel, do not disregard that the problem might be improper database login details.
SOLUTION
Let’s troubleshoot and find a solution. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Check Your WordPress Database Credentials:
Incorrect database credentials are a common cause of this error.
Open your wp-config.php file (located in your WordPress root directory).
Look for the following lines:
// ** MySQL settings - You can get this info from your web host **
define('DB_NAME', 'your_database_name');
define('DB_USER', 'your_database_user');
define('DB_PASSWORD', 'your_database_password');
define('DB_HOST', 'localhost');
Ensure that the database name, username, password, and host are correct.
If you’ve recently moved your site to a new host, update these credentials accordingly.
Look for the following lines:
2. Create a Database User in WordPress:
In case you do not know your database credentials, it is recommended to set up a new database user with appropriate privileges.
Here, assign the username to that of your WordPress database.
3. Repair a Corrupt Database:
Occasionally, data table rows might lose integrity.
Use a plugin like WP-DB Manager to rewind your database – this is one of the easiest steps in error recovery.
As an alternative, you will be able to use the phpMyAdmin editor manually to fix the tables.
4. Fix Corrupt Files:
Verify that core WordPress elements remain correct.
R-uploading the new copies of files of WordPress (you can leave those being wp- config.php and wp-content folder though)
5. Check With Your Hosting Provider.
Contact your hosting provider to verify if there are any server issues.
Sometimes, server-side problems can cause this error.
6. Restore to Your Latest Backup:
If you have a recent backup, restore your site to that point.
Make sure to back up your current files and database before restoring.