How to change MySQL root password in cPanel? Let’s discuss the steps in this article. Bobcares, as a part of our MySQL Support Services offers solutions to every query that comes our way.

Overview

1. Why We Need to Change MySQL Root Password in cPanel?
2. Benefits of Changing MySQL Root Password in cPanel
3. Steps to Change MySQL Root Password in cPanel
4. Conclusion

Why We Need to Change MySQL Root Password in cPanel?

cPanel: A web hosting control panel called cPanel offers automation capabilities and a graphical user interface (GUI) to make maintaining a server and website easier. Hosting companies and website owners use it extensively to handle different parts of their servers and websites without requiring a deep understanding of technology.

MySQL: An effective way to store, manage, and retrieve data is via MySQL, an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). To create, read, update, and delete data from a database, it makes use of Structured Query Language (SQL). MySQL is a popular choice for a wide range of applications, from small-scale webpages to complex online applications, data warehouses, and e-commerce platforms.

The “root” user’s administrative password for the MySQL database is called the MySQL root password. As a superuser, the root user in MySQL has complete access to all databases and administrative features. In addition to managing users and permissions, this user can build, edit, and remove databases. One of the most important security factors for the MySQL database system is the root password. With complete authority over all databases, user accounts, and system settings, the root user is MySQL’s superuser. With this degree of access, safeguarding sensitive data and preventing illegal access require protecting the root password.

Benefits of Changing MySQL Root Password in cPanel

Changing the root password for MySQL is a basic step to improve database security. Some of the benefits of changing the password is as follows:

1. Enhanced Security

Changing the MySQL root password strengthens the security of the database. A strong, complex password minimizes the risk of unauthorized access, reducing the chance of malicious attacks or data breaches.

2. Prevention of Unauthorized Access

The root user has administrative control, meaning anyone with access to the root account can perform any action on the database. By regularly changing the root password, we can prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access to critical administrative functions, such as creating, deleting, or altering databases.

3. Compliance with Best Practices

Security experts recommend periodic password updates as part of a robust security protocol. Keeping the root password updated aligns with cybersecurity best practices and industry standards, helping us stay ahead of potential security risks.

4. Mitigation of Risks

Weak or default passwords can be easily guessed or brute-forced by attackers. Changing the MySQL root password regularly ensures that even if a password becomes compromised, the risk is mitigated before a potential breach can occur.

Steps to Change MySQL Root Password in cPanel

Changing the MySQL root password is a simple process, especially if we have access to cPanel and WHM (Web Host Manager). Let’s look into the steps:

1. Log in to cPanel WHM

2. Access the WHM account as the root user.

3. Go to the “MySQL Root Password” Section

4. Once logged in, locate the “MySQL Root Password” option under the “SQL Services” menu in the WHM sidebar.

5. In the provided fields, enter and confirm the new MySQL root password.

For enhanced security, choose a password that is complex and difficult to guess. It should include: A minimum of 12 characters, A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, Numbers and special characters (e.g., #, @, %). Also, avoid using predictable patterns or sequences.

We can also use the password generator tool in WHM to create a strong, random password.

6. After selecting a sufficiently strong password, click the “Change Password” button to update the MySQL root password.

Additional Steps for Remote Servers

If we are using a remote MySQL server, we must update the /root/.my.cnf configuration file after changing the root password to ensure MySQL services continue to operate smoothly.

1. Log in via SSH: Use SSH to access the remote server as the root user.

2. Modify the .my.cnf File: In the /root/ directory, create or edit the .my.cnf file. Update it with the new password, as shown below:

makefile

[client]
user=root
password=NewRootPassword

Replace “NewRootPassword” with your newly selected password.

3. Set Correct File Permissions: To ensure that only the root user can access this file, change the permissions to 400:

bash

chmod 400 /root/.my.cnf

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Conclusion

The MySQL root password is vital for securing the database’s administrative functions. Regularly changing it and using strong, complex passwords are key to maintaining security and preventing unauthorized access. Whether managing the database locally or on a remote server, following these steps from our Experts ensures that the MySQL environment stays secure and compliant with best practices.