How to Change a WordPress Password in phpMyAdmin
If you have lost access to your WordPress admin area, you can reset your password directly in the database using phpMyAdmin. This is one of the quickest ways to regain access to your website.
When Would You Use This?
Forgotten Password
Reset an administrator password when you cannot log in.
Password Reset Emails Not Working
Useful when WordPress password reset emails are not being received.
Locked Out of WordPress
Regain access when all other login methods have failed.
Before You Start
Know Your Database
You will need access to your hosting control panel and phpMyAdmin.
Backup First
Always create a database backup before making any changes.
Locate Your User Account
You will need to know the WordPress username or email address.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Open phpMyAdmin
Login to your hosting control panel and open phpMyAdmin.
Step 2: Select Your WordPress Database
Choose the database used by your WordPress website from the left-hand menu.
Step 3: Open the Users Table
Locate the table:
wp_users
Some websites use a custom table prefix such as:
abc123_users
Step 4: Edit the User
Find the administrator account and click Edit.
Step 5: Update user_pass
Locate the field:
user_pass
Enter your new password.
Step 6: Select MD5
From the Function dropdown choose:
MD5
Then click Go or Save.
Example
Password Change Example
user_login: admin user_pass: MyNewPassword123 Function: MD5
Save the changes and WordPress will automatically convert the password to its newer secure hashing method after your next successful login.
Alternative Method (SQL Query)
Run SQL Directly
UPDATE wp_users
SET user_pass = MD5('MyNewPassword123')
WHERE user_login = 'admin';
Replace the username and password with your own values before running the query.
Common Problems & Fixes
Can't Find wp_users
Your site may use a custom table prefix. Look for a table ending in:
_users
Still Cannot Login
Confirm you updated the correct user account and database.
Wrong Database
Check the database name inside:
wp-config.php
Account Locked
Security plugins may temporarily lock administrator accounts after multiple failed login attempts.
Security Tips
Use Strong Passwords
Use a unique password with letters, numbers, and symbols.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Add an extra layer of security to administrator accounts.
Review Admin Users
Remove old administrator accounts that are no longer required.
Recommended Plugin
MyFast Login Guard
Once you've regained access to WordPress, consider improving login security with MyFast Login Guard.
- Rename wp-login.php
- Block brute force attacks
- Monitor login attempts
- View security logs
