> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Set Up extDB3 Database in Arma 3

> Configure the essential database bridge for persistent Arma 3 game modes. Learn how to connect your server to MySQL using the extDB3 extension.

## 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.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Advanced
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    10 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Configuration Workflow

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

<Steps>
  <Step title="Install the Extension">
    Upload the `@extDB3` folder to your server's root directory via the [Game Panel](https://panel.freakhosting.com) File Manager or SFTP.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Retrieve Credentials">
    Go to the **Databases** tab in your panel. Note down your **IP**, **Port**, **Username**, and **Database Name**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Edit the Config">
    Open `@extDB3/extdb3-conf.ini` and locate the `[Database]` (or gamemode-specific) block.

    ```ini theme={null}
    [AltisLife]
    IP = 127.0.0.1
    Port = 3306
    Username = your_db_user
    Password = your_secure_password
    Database = your_db_name
    ```
  </Step>

  <Step title="Activate via Startup">
    Ensure `@extDB3` is added to your **Server Mods** parameter in the Startup tab.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Troubleshooting Common Connectivity Issues

If your server fails to communicate with the database, check for these common error codes in your logs.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Extension Failed to Load">
    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.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Error 9 (SQL Version Mismatch)">
    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.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

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

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
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  * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)
</Note>

<Tip>
  ### Save on Your Hosting

  Ready to get a new server? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first month!
</Tip>

***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **Arma 3:** Connection established.
</div>