Learn how to download a database as an SQL file and import an existing SQL file into a database. This is useful for manual backups, restores and hosting migrations.
Who is this guide for?
This guide applies exclusively to customers whose hosting with cPanel is managed on the new Webland platform (WHMCS).
Do you use Essential Hosting without cPanel? To access phpMyAdmin, follow
“Essential Hosting: Creating and Managing Databases”. The cPanel access steps below do not apply to your plan.
Do you use the System Configurator or Domain Manager? Sign in at classic.webland.ch. The steps below do not apply to the classic Webland platform.
Important information
An SQL export can contain your database’s table structure and data. It does not include website files such as images, plugins or themes. You need those separately for a complete website migration or backup.
An import can change or delete existing data. Its behaviour depends on the instructions in the SQL file. Back up any target database already in use before starting the import.
Requirements
You have access to cPanel and phpMyAdmin.
For an export, the relevant database exists in your hosting account.
For an import, you have the SQL file and a prepared target database.
If you need a new target database, create it first through Database Wizard or Manage My Databases in cPanel.
1. Sign in to cPanel
Open the home page (dashboard) in the Webland client area.
Find the relevant hosting plan under your active services.
Click Log in to cPanel.
2. Open phpMyAdmin
In cPanel, open phpMyAdmin under Databases.
You will be redirected to phpMyAdmin automatically. Then choose the relevant operation: export or import.
3. Export a database
Select the database you want to back up on the left. Do not select only an individual table.
Open the Export tab.
Choose the export method:
Method | Purpose |
Quick | Export using the preset options. |
Custom | Select specific tables and export settings. |
Select SQL as the format.
For a custom export, make sure all required tables and both structure and data are selected.
Click Export.
Store the downloaded file securely.
Check that the download has finished and the file is not empty. If needed, rename it to include the database name and backup date so you can identify it later.
4. Import an SQL file
When moving a database to new hosting, preferably use an empty target database.
Select the target database on the left and carefully check its name.
Open Import.
Click Choose File.
Select the SQL file on your computer.
Check that the format is SQL.
Click Import.
Wait for phpMyAdmin’s completion message.
If tables with the same names already exist, the import may fail or replace them. Do not delete existing tables without checking their purpose first.
5. Check the result
After an import:
Review the completion message for errors.
Open the database and check that the expected tables exist.
Check a sample of important data.
Test the connected website or application.
The presence of tables alone does not confirm that all data was imported completely.
When changing hosting: Enter the new database credentials in your application and make sure the database user is assigned to the target database. A standard database export does not transfer this assignment.
Frequently asked questions and troubleshooting
The SQL file is too large.
Check the maximum upload size displayed in the import form. Large databases may require another import method. Contact our support team and include the file size and any error message.
The import reports that a table already exists.
The target database already contains tables with the same names. Check that you selected the correct database and whether you intend to add data or restore an earlier version. Back up existing data before making further changes.
The import stops with an error.
Keep the exact error message. The file must be compatible with the target hosting’s database system and permissions. Contact our support team if you need assistance.
The import succeeded, but the website does not work.
Check the database name, username, password and server address in the application. Also check the user assignment and permissions in cPanel. A website migration additionally requires the website files and, where applicable, application-specific settings.