Forgotten Admin Password – Reset via phpMyAdmin

If you are locked out of your WordPress website because you forgot the admin password, don’t worry. It happens to many website owners, and there is a simple way to fix it. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step on how to reset your forgotten admin password using phpMyAdmin. This method works even if you don’t have access to your WordPress email reset option.

Managing a WordPress website can be challenging at times, but knowing technical fixes like this can save time and prevent stress. This tutorial is carefully written to help beginners and even non-technical users reset their password safely. For professional help with website design and troubleshooting, you can visit Next Level Design Agency.

Why Use phpMyAdmin to Reset WordPress Password?

WordPress stores all user information, including passwords, in its database. Normally, you would reset a password using the “Lost your password?” link on the login page. But sometimes:

• Your email is not working or not linked properly.
• Password reset emails go to spam or never arrive.
• You don’t have access to the registered admin email.

In such cases, phpMyAdmin gives you direct access to the WordPress database, where you can manually change the password.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reset Forgotten Admin Password

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

Most hosting providers offer a cPanel dashboard. Log in to your hosting account and find the option to access cPanel. Once inside, look for the Databases section.

Step 2: Open phpMyAdmin

Click on phpMyAdmin. This tool allows you to manage and edit your website database directly.

Step 3: Select Your WordPress Database

On the left-hand side, you’ll see a list of databases. If you are unsure which database belongs to your WordPress site, check your wp-config.php file located in your website’s root folder. Look for the line:

define('DB_NAME', 'your_database_name');

Step 4: Navigate to wp_users Table

Click on your database, then scroll to find the table named wp_users. The prefix may vary (like wp34_users) depending on your setup.

Step 5: Edit Admin User

Find the row with your admin username. Click Edit to make changes.

Step 6: Reset Password

In the user_pass column, you’ll see an encrypted password. Delete it and type your new password. Important: In the Function dropdown next to user_pass, select MD5 before saving. This ensures your password is stored securely.

Step 7: Save Changes

Click the Go button at the bottom. Your new password is now active. Go back to your WordPress login page and sign in with the updated password.

Extra Tips for Security

• After logging in, change your password again from your WordPress dashboard for extra security.
• Keep your email updated so you can use the standard password reset option in the future.
• Install a trusted security plugin to protect your site from unauthorized access.

Common Issues You May Face

1. Can’t find phpMyAdmin? – Some hosting providers hide it in advanced tools. Contact support if you can’t locate it.

2. Database not showing? – Ensure you selected the correct hosting account and database linked with your site.

3. Login still not working? – Double-check you selected MD5 encryption when saving the new password.

Alternative Ways to Reset WordPress Password

• Using WP-CLI: If you are comfortable with command-line tools, WP-CLI can reset your password quickly.
• Editing functions.php: Add a small code snippet in your theme’s functions.php file to reset the password temporarily.
• Contact Hosting Support: If you’re not confident editing the database, your hosting support team can help.

Final Thoughts

Forgetting your WordPress admin password can be stressful, but with phpMyAdmin, you can reset it in just a few minutes. This method is reliable, secure, and works even if your email reset option fails. Always remember to keep your login credentials safe and update your recovery email for future use.

If you are looking for professional WordPress development, design, or support services, visit Next Level Design Agency. Their team specializes in helping businesses build modern, secure, and SEO-friendly websites.

By following this guide, you not only fix your login issue but also learn a valuable skill that can save you time in future WordPress emergencies.