> ## 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 Connect to a Database Using HeidiSQL

> Master remote database management with HeidiSQL. Learn how to securely connect to your FREAKHOSTING MySQL or MariaDB databases from your local machine.

## Remote Database Management

HeidiSQL is a powerful, open-source, and lightweight management tool specifically designed for MySQL and MariaDB databases. While our Game and Web panels provide integrated web-based database management, HeidiSQL offers a more strong environment for developers who need to perform complex SQL queries, manage large-scale data migrations, or synchronize local and remote tables. This guide will walk you through the secure connection process from your local workstation.

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

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

***

## Technical Prerequisites

Before initializing a connection, ensure you have prepared the following components.

* **Acquire HeidiSQL:** Download and install the latest stable version from the [official HeidiSQL website](https://www.heidisql.com/download.php).
* **Initialize Your Database:** Ensure you have already [Created a Database](/portals/web-panel/how-to-manage-mysql-databases) within your management panel.

***

## Step 1: Retrieve Connection Credentials

Your connection details vary based on the hosting platform you are using.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Game Panel (Pterodactyl)">
    1. Log in to the [Game Panel](https://games.freakhosting.com) and select your server.
    2. Navigate to the **Databases** tab in the sidebar.
    3. Click the **Eye Icon** or the **three dots** next to your database entry to reveal the hidden credentials.
    4. Note down the **Endpoint (Host)**, **Port**, **Username**, and **Password**.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Web Control Panel">
    1. Log in to the [Web Panel](https://web.freakhosting.com) and go to the **Databases** section.
    2. Locate your database and copy the remote access host provided.
    3. Ensure you have authorized your local IP address for remote access within the database settings.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

## Step 2: Configuring the Session

Follow these steps to link HeidiSQL to your remote database instance.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Initialize New Session">
    Launch **HeidiSQL** and click the **New** button in the bottom-left corner of the session manager.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Network Type">
    Set the **Network type** to `MariaDB or MySQL (TCP/IP)`.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Input Server Data">
    * **Hostname / IP:** Enter your copied Endpoint address.
    * **User:** Input your unique database Username.
    * **Password:** Paste your secure database Password.
    * **Port:** use the default `3306` unless specified otherwise in your panel.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Open the Link">
    Click **Open** to establish the connection. The system will prompt you to save the session for future use.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Troubleshooting Connectivity

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Connection Refused / Timeout">
    * **Access Control:** Verify that your database user is permitted to connect from your local IP. In the Game Panel, use `%` in the "Connections From" field to allow access from any IP address temporarily.
    * **ISP Blocking:** Some local networks or ISP firewalls may block port `3306`. Try using a VPN or contacting your network administrator.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Access Denied Errors">
    Ensure there are no leading or trailing spaces in your username or password. We recommend clicking the "Copy" icon in our panel rather than manually highlighting the text.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

<Warning>
  ### Database Security

  Remote database access provides full control over your data. Never use weak passwords or share your connection details with unauthorized individuals. Always use a secure, encrypted connection (SSL/TLS) if your project handles sensitive user information.
</Warning>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

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

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
  * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
  * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
  * **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:** February 2026 | **Pro Tip:** Keep your database credentials secure and never share them.
</div>