MySQL Workbench is an open-source tool that enables you to connect to server databases from any computer. This guide walks you through downloading, installing, and configuring MySQL Workbench to establish a connection to your database.

Prerequisites

Before installing MySQL Workbench, ensure you have the Visual C++ Redistributable Package version 2015-2019 installed. The installation will not proceed without this prerequisite.

Download MySQL Workbench for free at: https://dev.mysql.com/downloads/workbench/

How to Connect

  1. Step 1: Launch MySQL Workbench

    Open the MySQL Workbench application on your computer.

  2. Step 2: Create a New Connection

    Click the '+' icon next to MySQL Connections to open the connection setup dialog.

    New connection button

  3. Step 3: Configure Connection Settings

    In the "Set Up a New Connection" dialog window, fill in the following fields:

    • Connection Name: Assign a descriptive name to your connection
    • Connection Method: Keep the default setting: Standard (TCP/IP)
    • Hostname: Enter the IP address of your database host
    • Port: Leave unchanged at 3306
    • Username: Enter your control panel account username or the designated database user
    • Password: Click "Store in Vault" to securely save your password

    Connection details form

  4. Step 4: Store Your Password

    When the "Store Password For Connection" window appears, enter your control panel account password or database user password, then click OK.

    Password storage dialog

  5. Step 5: Test the Connection

    Click the "Test Connection" button to verify that the connection can be established successfully.

    Test connection button

  6. Step 6: Confirm Successful Connection

    Upon successful connection, a confirmation message will appear with connection details. Click OK to proceed.

    Connection success message

  7. Step 7: Save and Open the Connection

    Click OK in the "Set up a New Connection" dialog box to save the connection. The newly created connection will appear in the MySQL Connections list.

  8. Step 8: Access Your Database

    Click on your newly created connection to open it. The database will open in a new window, displaying its tables and structure.

    Connection list

    MySQL Workbench window