Database Connection Errors
A message such as 'Error establishing a database connection' means your website cannot reach the database where its content is stored. Since almost every page relies on that database, the site usually stops working entirely.
It looks dramatic, but the cause is often temporary — a busy server or a brief glitch — and recovery is usually fast once we look at the server. This guide explains the essentials.
Why It Happens
Database connection errors stem from a few common sources.
- The database server being temporarily overloaded.
- Incorrect database login details in the site's config.
- The hosting account hitting a resource limit.
- A corrupted database needing repair.
What You Can Check
A couple of quick checks help before contacting us.
- Refresh after a minute in case it was a brief spike.
- Check whether the whole site is affected.
- Note when the error first appeared.
- Avoid making changes while the site is down.
When to Escalate
A database connection error usually takes the whole site offline, so raise a priority ticket. We can check the server, repair the database if needed, and confirm the connection details, restoring service as quickly as possible.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.