How to Install phpMyAdmin on CentOS 9: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to manage your MySQL or MariaDB databases with ease? If so, phpMyAdmin is the tool you need. With its user-friendly interface, phpMyAdmin allows you to perform complex database operations without needing to dive into the terminal. Whether you're using a VPS or a dedicated server running CentOS 9, this step-by-step guide will help you install phpMyAdmin effortlessly.

What is phpMyAdmin?

phpMyAdmin is a powerful, open-source tool designed for managing MySQL and MariaDB databases through a web interface. It simplifies common database tasks such as creating, editing, and deleting databases and tables. What’s more, it lets you run SQL queries without having to access the command line.

Key Features of phpMyAdmin:

Web-Based Interface: No need to use the terminal for basic database operations.
SQL Query Support: Execute complex queries with ease.
Table Management: Create, edit, and delete tables effortlessly.
Database Security: Offers access control features to manage user privileges.
Multi-Language Support: phpMyAdmin supports several languages, making it accessible worldwide.

What is CentOS 9?

CentOS (Community Enterprise Operating System) is a Linux distribution designed for developers and IT professionals. CentOS Stream 9, which is the latest release, offers stability and security, making it ideal for both small and large organizations. It is widely used in production environments due to its seamless integration with Red Hat-based technologies.

Benefits of Using CentOS 9:

Stability: Offers long-term support and reliability.
Security: Includes built-in security features like SELinux.
Flexibility: Can be used for various web hosting setups.
Wide Adoption: Extensive community support and resources.

VPS vs. Dedicated Server: Which One to Choose?

Before installing phpMyAdmin on CentOS 9, let’s quickly review the differences between a VPS (Virtual Private Server) and a dedicated server:

Dedicated Server:

Full Control: You own the entire physical server.
High Performance: Best for large websites with high traffic.
Security: Offers enhanced security as you control everything.

VPS:

Virtualized Environment: Shares a physical server with others, but offers private resources.
Cost-Effective: Ideal for businesses that have outgrown shared hosting but don’t need a dedicated server.
Control: More control than shared hosting, but not as much as a dedicated server.

Why Install phpMyAdmin on CentOS 9?

If you're running a CentOS 9 server, installing phpMyAdmin is a smart move for managing MySQL or MariaDB databases. It simplifies common database tasks and provides an intuitive, browser-based interface that saves time.

Advantages of phpMyAdmin:

No Command Line: Manage databases without needing terminal commands.
Support for Multiple Database Operations: Create, delete, and modify databases, tables, and fields.
Security Features: Manage user permissions and set up password protection.
Ease of Use: Its graphical interface makes database management accessible to everyone.

System Requirements for phpMyAdmin Installation

Before you begin, make sure your CentOS 9 VPS or dedicated server meets these basic requirements:

Prerequisites:

CentOS Stream 9 installed and running.
Non-root user with sudo privileges.
MySQL or MariaDB server installed.
Apache web server installed.
PHP scripting language installed.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install phpMyAdmin on CentOS 9

Now that you've ensured your system is ready, follow these steps to install phpMyAdmin on CentOS 9.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before installing any new software, it’s always a good idea to update your system to the latest version:

bash

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yum update -y

Step 2: Check if MySQL/MariaDB is Running

Check if your MySQL or MariaDB database management system is already running. Run the following commands:

For MariaDB:

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systemctl status mariadb

For MySQL:

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systemctl status mysql

If either service is not running, you can install MariaDB by running:

bash

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yum -y install mariadb-server mariadb

After installation, start the service and enable it to start at boot:

bash

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systemctl start mariadb

systemctl enable mariadb

Secure your MariaDB installation:

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mysql_secure_installation

Step 3: Install the EPEL Repository

phpMyAdmin is available from the EPEL repository, so you'll need to enable it first. Run the following commands:

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dnf config-manager --set-enabled crb

dnf install epel-release epel-next-release -y

You can verify that the repository is installed by running:

bash

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dnf repolist

Step 4: Install phpMyAdmin

Now that the system is prepared, you can install phpMyAdmin:

bash

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dnf install phpMyAdmin -y

Step 5: Configure phpMyAdmin

Once phpMyAdmin is installed, you need to configure Apache to allow access. Use your preferred text editor (e.g., vi) to edit the configuration file:

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vi /etc/httpd/conf.d/phpMyAdmin.conf

Locate the line that says:

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And add the following line just below it:

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Require all granted

Alternatively, you can automate this step with the following command:

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sed -i '/^<Directory \/usr\/share\/phpMyAdmin\/>/a Require all granted' /etc/httpd/conf.d/phpMyAdmin.conf

Step 6: Restart Apache

For the changes to take effect, restart the Apache service:

bash

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systemctl restart httpd

Check the status of the service:

bash

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systemctl status httpd

Step 7: Access phpMyAdmin

To test the installation, open your browser and navigate to:

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http://<your-server-ip>/phpmyadmin

Replace <your-server-ip> with the actual IP address of your server. You should see the phpMyAdmin login page.

Automating the Installation Process

If you prefer automating the entire process, you can use a script. Here's an example of a shell script (installphpmyadmin.sh) that installs all required components:

bash

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#!/bin/bash

# Update system and install necessary components

yum -y update

yum install mariadb-server mariadb httpd php php-mysqlnd epel-release -y

# Start services

systemctl start mariadb httpd

systemctl enable mariadb httpd

# Install phpMyAdmin

dnf install phpMyAdmin -y

# Configure phpMyAdmin

sed -i '/^<Directory \/usr\/share\/phpMyAdmin\/>/a Require all granted' /etc/httpd/conf.d/phpMyAdmin.conf

Save the script, make it executable, and run it to automate the installation process.

Conclusion

That’s it! You’ve successfully installed phpMyAdmin on your CentOS 9 VPS or dedicated server. With phpMyAdmin, managing MySQL and MariaDB databases is a breeze. Now, you can execute queries, manage tables, and streamline your database administration tasks from an intuitive web interface.

Next Steps:

Start using phpMyAdmin to manage your databases.
Explore advanced phpMyAdmin features like creating complex queries or importing/exporting data.

FAQs

1. What are the disadvantages of using phpMyAdmin?

While phpMyAdmin is a fantastic tool, it has some drawbacks, such as:

Limited to MySQL and MariaDB.
Lacks the advanced features that newer database management systems provide.

2. Why should I use CentOS 9?

CentOS 9 offers security, stability, and compatibility with a wide range of web applications, making it an excellent choice for server environments.

3. Do I need a VPS for phpMyAdmin?

You don’t necessarily need a VPS, but it helps if your website or project is growing beyond shared hosting limitations.

4. How do I secure my phpMyAdmin installation?

To secure your phpMyAdmin installation, always use strong passwords, configure firewalls, and limit access using IP restrictions.

5. Can I use phpMyAdmin with other databases?

No, phpMyAdmin only works with MySQL and MariaDB. For other databases, you’ll need a different management tool.

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