Connect to a Database with MySQL Workbench

MySQL Workbench is a popular graphical tool for working with MySQL databases. This multifunctional tool is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Download and Install MySQL Workbench

You can obtain MySQL Workbench at no cost directly from the MySQL official website.

After downloading the appropriate version of MySQL Workbench that corresponds to your operating system, proceed with the installation by following the guidelines specific to your OS.

Prerequisites

• Ensure MySQL Workbench is installed on your computer. If not, you can download and install it from the MySQL website.
• Have the necessary credentials for the MySQL database you want to connect to obtained from the dedicated project page.

Steps to Connect to a MySQL Database

1. Open MySQL Workbench

Launch MySQL Workbench on your computer. You will see the home screen.

2. Create a New Connection

• On the home screen, click on the "+" symbol next to "MySQL Connections" to create a new connection.

• This opens the "Setup New Connection" dialog.

3. Configure Connection Settings

In the "Setup New Connection" dialog, enter the following details:

• Connection Name: Give a descriptive name to your connection. This can be anything to help you remember which database this connection refers to.
• Connection Method: Choose "Standard (TCP/IP)" for most cases.
• Hostname: Enter the IP address or domain name of your MySQL server. If the server is on your local machine, use, it should be something like mysql-colour.edukiz.com.
• Port: The default MySQL port is 3306. We will keep it as is.
• Username: Enter the username you use to access the database, it is root in our case.

• Password: Click on "Store in Vault" and enter your password if you wish to save it. Otherwise, you'll be prompted to enter it each time you connect.

4. Test the Connection

• Click on the "Test Connection" button to make sure the details are correct and MySQL Workbench can connect to the database. If there's an error, it will provide a message, and you'll need to verify your settings. Otherwise you should see a prompt with the message "Successfully made the MySQL connection".

5. Connect to the Database

• After a successful test, click "OK" to save the connection.
• Back on the home screen, you will see your new connection listed under "MySQL Connections."

• Click on the connection icon to connect to your MySQL database. If you didn't save your password, you'll be prompted to enter it now. If it is working you should see a connecting windows like the below screenshot.

6. Using MySQL Workbench

• Once connected, you can use the Workbench interface to run SQL queries, manage databases, and perform various database operations.

Well done !