How can I properly import an SQL file to MySQL using the command line?

Data and Databases
1

I have an SQL dump file created from phpMyAdmin that I need to import into MySQL on a different server using the command line.

Currently, I’m using Windows Server 2008 R2. I saved the SQL file to the C drive and tried using the following command:

database_name < my_backup.sql

Unfortunately, I’m receiving syntax error messages, and it isn’t working.

  • What steps should I take to successfully import this SQL file?
  • Is it necessary to create the database before the import?
2

what error messages r u seeing? could be ur running the command from the wrong dir or mysql isn’t runing. can u connect normally with mysql -u root -p first?

3

also, try wrapping the sql file path in quotes if there are spaces, like this: “C:\my backup.sql”. and make sure ur sql file is not corrupted, as that can cause issues too.

4

To successfully import your SQL file into MySQL, ensure that you’re using the correct command format, which includes the MySQL executable and login details. The proper command is as follows:

mysql -u username -p database_name < C:\my_backup.sql

Replace ‘username’ with your actual MySQL username. This command should be run from the MySQL installation directory, or you can add the MySQL bin directory to your system PATH.

Regarding database creation, it depends on the content of your SQL dump file. If it contains ‘CREATE DATABASE’ statements, you should be fine. If not, you must create the database beforehand using:

mysql -u username -p -e "CREATE DATABASE database_name;"

Typically, phpMyAdmin exports do include the necessary commands for creating databases, so be sure to verify your SQL file.