SQL DataBase

[Randy Shaffer]

I am using PHP & MySQL for Dummies. I really have a dumb question. I have created a database and added a couple of records. I can not see where the database is stored. Using WS_FTP to look at the directory, there is not directory called mysql or bin that contains the rdms file.

[JasonD]

I am about 90% sure that the MySQL database is not located within our direct possession. (Though it may be on the server, it might be above our root.)

Just out of curiosity, why are you trying to get to the rdms file?

You can, and should, obtain all data for your database through the PHPMyAdmin, or see if they allow remote access. Beyond that, you should use PHP code, to interact.

Unless you have a dedicated server, and have setup your own MySQL, then you may never have direct access to those files.

I imagine that, for security and speed, there is a separate dedicated computer for MySQL. (It is never wise to install MySQL on the same server that you host your websites on, especially a shared server. It is hard to control permissions an access, without that physical separation, and having an OS that is optimized for MySQL, makes it less of a burden on all of us.)

I am not 100% sure what method they have chosen to setup this server/host/DB arrangement. I only know what other sites normally do, in the line of security, and speed. (Though, only from research. My personal server had both installed, but I didn't operate a shared server, and my use was only for experiments.)

[Randy Shaffer]

Hi Jason, thank you for response. I am using PHPMyAdmin to develope the database. And I intend on using PHP to access the tables. I was curious to see what the structure was of the stored data. When I could not find it, I was even more curious. As everything is working as expected, I will press on with my Dummies book.

Thanks again,
Randy