How to Allow Remote Database Connections in Plesk

By default, databases in Plesk only accept connections from the server itself (localhost). If you need to connect from an external application, a local development tool like MySQL Workbench, or another server, you'll need to enable remote access.

Step 1: enable remote access for the database user

1. Log in to your Plesk control panel.
2. Go to Websites & Domains > Databases.
3. Click the User Management tab.
4. Click the name of the database user you want to grant remote access to.
5. Under Access control, choose one of these options:
   • Allow local connections only — default, no remote access
   • Allow remote connections from any host — lets anyone connect (use with caution)
   • Allow remote connections from — restricts access to specific IP addresses or hostnames (recommended)
6. Click OK to save.

Step 2: connect from your remote application

Use these connection details in your external application or tool:

• Host: your domain name or server IP address
• Port: 3306 (default MySQL/MariaDB port)
• Username: the database user you configured above
• Password: the database user's password
• Database: the name of your database

Important notes

• Security first: avoid "Allow remote connections from any host" whenever possible. Specify the exact IP address of the server or computer that needs access.
• Firewall: port 3306 must be open on your server's firewall. If connections time out, ask your hosting provider to check the firewall rules.
• Encrypted connections: remote MySQL connections are unencrypted by default. For sensitive data, configure SSL for your database connections.
• This setting is per-user — each database user has their own access control settings.
• If you no longer need remote access, switch back to Allow local connections only to reduce your attack surface.

Testing the connection

From your local computer (if you have MySQL client installed), run:

mysql -u your_db_user -p -h yourdomain.com

Or use a GUI tool like MySQL Workbench, DBeaver, or HeidiSQL — enter the connection details above and click Test Connection.

Troubleshooting

• Connection refused? The server firewall is likely blocking port 3306. Contact your hosting provider to open it.
• Access denied? Make sure the remote access setting is correct for that specific user, and double-check the password.
• Connection times out? This usually means port 3306 is blocked. Try a different network to rule out your local firewall.
• Access control option not showing? Your hosting plan may not include the Remote access for database users permission. Contact your hosting provider.