How to Fix “Error Establishing Database Connection” (WordPress) Print

This error means your website cannot connect to its database.

Possible Causes

• Incorrect database credentials
• Database server down
• Corrupted database

Fix Steps

Step 1: Check wp-config.php

Verify:

DB_NAME
DB_USER
DB_PASSWORD
DB_HOST

Step 2: Test Database User

In cPanel → MySQL Databases:

• Ensure user is assigned to database

Step 3: Repair Database

Add to wp-config.php:

define('WP_ALLOW_REPAIR', true);

Visit:

/wp-admin/maint/repair.php

Pro Tip

This error is rarely caused by hosting—it’s usually configuration-related