Knowledgebase

Importing a Database Using phpMyAdmin (Firstserv Guide)

This guide explains how to import a database backup (usually a .sql file) from your computer into your Firstserv hosting account using phpMyAdmin in cPanel.

Before You Start

Before importing your database:

• ✅ You must already have a database created in cPanel
• ✅ You must know which database you want to import into
• ✅ Your backup file should typically be in .sql format

👉 If you haven’t created a database yet, do this first in:

cPanel → MySQL Databases

Step 1: Open phpMyAdmin

1. Log in to cPanel
2. Go to:

   Databases → phpMyAdmin
   

Step 2: Select Your Database

• In the left-hand panel, click the database you want to import into

✅ Ignore:

information_schema

(This is a system database and not used for your site data)

Step 3: Open the Import Tool

• Click the Import tab at the top of the page

Step 4: Upload Your Database File

1. Click Choose File
2. Select your .sql file from your computer

Step 5: Start the Import

• Leave the default settings (these are suitable in most cases)
• Click Go

✅ phpMyAdmin will now import your database

After Importing

• Once complete, your database tables should appear in phpMyAdmin
• You can now connect your website or application to this database

Common Issue & Fix

❌ Error: “CREATE DATABASE not allowed”

This happens when your .sql file contains commands like:

✅ How to Fix

• Open the .sql file in a text editor
• Remove or comment out these lines

Example:

Then re-import the file.

Large Database Warning

If your import:

• Fails
• Times out
• Or is very large

👉 You should instead use:

• SSH import method (recommended for large files)

Summary

• Create your database first in cPanel
• Open phpMyAdmin
• Select the database
• Use the Import tab to upload your .sql file
• Remove invalid database creation commands if needed

Need Help?

If your database won’t import or you’re unsure which method to use, the Firstserv support team is always happy to help.