How to Allow Remote Connections to a MySQL Database in Plesk

By default, MySQL databases in Plesk may allow or restrict remote connections depending on your hosting provider configuration. If you need to connect to your database from an external application, script, or desktop tool on a different server, you must configure remote access. This guide explains how to set it up.

Checking if Remote Access is Available

The remote access control feature is only available if your subscription has the "Remote access for database users" permission. If the option is not visible, contact your hosting provider.

Configuring Remote Access for a Database User

1. Log in to Plesk.
2. Go to Databases.
3. Click the database you want to configure.
4. Go to the Users tab.
5. Click the database user you want to modify.
6. Under Access Control, choose one of the following:
   • Allow local connections only. The database can only be accessed from the server itself (localhost). This is the most secure option.
   • Allow remote connections from any host. The database can be accessed from any IP address. This is convenient but less secure.
   • Allow remote connections from (specified hosts). The database can only be accessed from specific IP addresses. Enter one or more IP addresses. This is the recommended option for production use.
7. Click OK.

You can also set remote access when creating a new user:

1. Go to Databases → click the database → Add Database User.
2. Configure the access control settings under the Access Control section.
3. Click OK.

Connecting to Your Database Remotely

Use the following connection details in your database client (MySQL Workbench, DBeaver, etc.):

• Host: Your server IP address (ask your hosting provider if unsure).
• Port: 3306 (default MySQL port).
• Database name: The full database name including prefix.
• Username: The database user (including prefix).
• Password: The database user password.

Important Notes

• Remote access is controlled per database user, not per database. Each user can have different access rules.
• Always use the "Allow remote connections from (specified hosts)" option for production use — never open access to all IPs.
• If your hosting provider uses a firewall, port 3306 must be open for remote connections to work. Contact your provider if you cannot connect.
• Remote database connections may be slower than local connections due to network latency.

Troubleshooting

"Access denied" when connecting remotely:

• Verify the IP address you are connecting from is in the allowed hosts list.
• Check that the database username and password are correct.
• Ensure the firewall is not blocking port 3306. Contact your hosting provider.

"Connection timed out":

• The firewall may be blocking the connection. Contact your hosting provider.
• Verify the host IP address is correct.

"Access Control" options are not visible:

• Your subscription does not have the "Remote access for database users" permission. Contact your hosting provider.