Knowledgebase

Connecting to MySQL via SSH Tunnel (Firstserv Guide – MySQL Workbench)

This guide explains how to securely connect to your Firstserv MySQL database using an SSH tunnel in MySQL Workbench.

Using an SSH tunnel adds an extra layer of security by routing your database connection through your hosting account.

Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

• ✅ SSH access enabled on your hosting account
• ✅ Your cPanel username and password
• ✅ Your MySQL database username and password
• ✅ MySQL Workbench installed

Step 1: Create a New Connection

Open MySQL Workbench and click + to create a new connection.

Step 2: Enter Connection Details

Configure your connection as follows:

General Settings

• Connection Name:

  • Choose any name (e.g. Firstserv Database)

• Connection Method:

  Standard TCP/IP over SSH
  

SSH Settings

• SSH Hostname:

  yourdomain.com:722
  

  OR your server hostname with port 722

• SSH Username:

  your cPanel username
  

• SSH Password:

  • Click Store in Vault (Windows) or Store in Keychain (Mac)
  • Enter your cPanel password

MySQL Settings

• MySQL Hostname:

  localhost
  

• MySQL Server Port:

  3306
  

• Username:

  your MySQL database username
  

• Password:

  • Click Store in Vault/Keychain
  • Enter your MySQL user password

Step 3: Test the Connection

• Click Test Connection

What to Expect

• You may see a security/certificate warning (this is normal)
• Confirm the warning to continue

✅ If successful, your connection is ready

Step 4: Save & Connect

• Click OK to save the connection
• Double-click the saved connection to connect

✅ MySQL Workbench will open an SSH tunnel and connect to your database

Summary

• Use Standard TCP/IP over SSH in MySQL Workbench
• Connect via:

  yourdomain.com:722
  

• Authenticate using:
  • cPanel credentials (SSH)
  • MySQL credentials (database)
• Test and save your connection for easy access

Need Help?

If you have trouble connecting or need help enabling SSH access, the Firstserv support team is always happy to assist.