Rename a database in cPanel

Updated: 28 September 2026 · Applies to: cPanel & WHM 138 (Jupiter theme)

You can rename a MySQL database from cPanel. Any application that uses it stops working until you put the new name in its configuration.

Steps

1. Back up the database first (Files › Backup › Download a MySQL Database Backup).
2. Log in to cPanel (for example at https://yourdomain.com:2083, or from the Ucartz client area).
3. Open Databases › Manage My Databases.
4. Under Current Databases, click Rename next to the database.
5. Enter the new name and click Proceed. The username_ prefix stays in front of the name.
6. Update the database name in your application, for example DB_NAME in WordPress's wp-config.php.

Note: cPanel copies the data to a new database and removes the old one, so renaming a large database takes time. Do it when the site is quiet. Users and privileges move to the new name automatically.