Many websites are made of two parts: files and a database. The files contain the application code, themes, plugins, and uploads. The database contains the content and settings the application uses.
What Lives in the Database
For WordPress, the database stores posts, pages, menus, users, settings, comments, and many plugin records. For shops, it may also store orders and customer details.
Database Users Matter
A database user is the account your website uses to connect to the database. Use a dedicated user per application where possible. Do not reuse one database user across unrelated sites.
Backups Need the Database
A file backup without the database will not restore most CMS sites properly. Always back up both files and database before migrations, major updates, or cleanup work.
Be Careful With Manual Edits
Tools such as phpMyAdmin are powerful. A small mistake can delete important data. Export a backup before running manual queries or bulk changes.
If your site shows database connection errors, check the database name, username, password, host, and whether the database service is available.
