Time for action—step 3: Create a database

The next step is creating an empty database for Joomla!. If you're new to Joomla!, the concept of a web application using a database may take getting used to. The database isn't a regular file that you can create (or copy, move, or delete) on the web server. To create and manage a database, you use special software. Most web hosting companies offer you database access through a web interface (usually called a control panel). Popular control panels are Plesk and CPanel. You'll find details on the control panel that's available to you in your hosting account information.

In the following example, we'll use Plesk to create a new database. If your hosting company provides another control panel, the basic procedure won't be very different. However, if you're not sure how to access your web server control panel your host should be able to provide you with the details.