MySQL-wachtwoorden werken niet na de upgrade

This article explains why MySQL database passwords may stop working after a server upgrade and how to resolve the issue using cPanel.

Scope and affected environments

This issue occurs on servers upgraded to MySQL version 5.6.5 or later. It affects applications that rely on existing MySQL users created before the upgrade. Typical environments include shared and reseller hosting accounts running applications such as WordPress.

Identifying the MySQL version

Before proceeding, confirm the MySQL version installed on the server.

1. Log in op cPanel.
2. On the main page, locate the GENERAL INFORMATION section.
3. Klik Server Information.
4. Check the value shown for MySQL Version.

[Tijdelijke aanduiding voor screenshot: cPanel Server Information panel]

Probleembeschrijving

Database connections fail even though the correct database username and password are configured. Applications commonly display database connection errors indicating authentication failure.

Root cause

MySQL 5.6.5 and later versions use a newer password hashing mechanism. User accounts created on older MySQL versions may still use a legacy hash format that is no longer supported. As a result, authentication fails even with valid credentials.

Resolution overview

The solution is to recreate the affected database user so MySQL stores the password using the current hashing method. The database itself does not need to be recreated.

Recreating the database user

1. Log in op cPanel.
2. Open the Tools page.
3. In the Databases section, click Beheer mijn databases.
4. Under Huidige gebruikers, locate the affected database user.
5. Klik Delete and confirm the removal.
6. Scroll naar Add New User.
7. Enter the same username that was deleted.
8. Enter the database password.
9. Confirm the password and click Create User.

[Tijdelijke aanduiding voor screenshot: MySQL user deletion and recreation]

The password does not need to be changed. Existing application configuration files can continue using the same credentials.

Reassigning user privileges

After recreating the user, ensure it is assigned to the correct database.

1. In Beheer mijn databases, locate Gebruiker toevoegen aan database.
2. Select the recreated user and the target database.
3. Klik Toevoegen.
4. Assign the required privileges or select ALLE VOORRECHTEN.
5. Save the changes.

[Tijdelijke aanduiding voor screenshot: Assigning MySQL user privileges]

Application verification

Once the user is recreated and permissions are restored, reload the affected website or application. Database connectivity should be restored immediately.

Operational considerations

Database compatibility issues are more common during platform upgrades. Environments with frequent version changes or custom database requirements may benefit from infrastructure such as cloud-servers or a dedicated server, which provide greater control over database versions and upgrade timing. Applications running on cPanel hosting should always be tested after major database upgrades.