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Database Bridge: extDB3

The Arma 3 engine does not possess native SQL capabilities. To run persistent gamemodes such as Altis Life, Exile, or King of the Hill, you must use the extDB3 extension. This tool acts as a translator, allowing the game engine to read and write player stats, bank balances, and vehicle locations to a remote or local MySQL database.

Difficulty

Advanced

Time

10 Minutes

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Configuration Workflow

Follow these steps to establish a secure handshake between your Arma 3 server and your MySQL database.
1

Install the Extension

Upload the @extDB3 folder to your server’s root directory via the Game Panel File Manager or SFTP.
2

Retrieve Credentials

Go to the Databases tab in your panel. Note down your IP, Port, Username, and Database Name.
3

Edit the Config

Open @extDB3/extdb3-conf.ini and locate the [Database] (or gamemode-specific) block.
[AltisLife]
IP = 127.0.0.1
Port = 3306
Username = your_db_user
Password = your_secure_password
Database = your_db_name
4

Activate via Startup

Ensure @extDB3 is added to your Server Mods parameter in the Startup tab.

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Troubleshooting Common Connectivity Issues

If your server fails to communicate with the database, check for these common error codes in your logs.
This error typically indicates that the host system is missing required dependencies. Specifically, the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable (x86) packages must be installed. If you are on a VPS, ensure these are updated; on our managed Game Panel, please contact support if this persists.
Error 9 occurs when the SQL syntax within your mission scripts does not match the SQL protocol of the server. This often happens when trying to run legacy MySQL 5.5 missions on a modern MariaDB 10.x backend.

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Need Extra Help?

If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

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Last Updated: January 2026 | Arma 3: Connection established.