How to Export Databases and Tables with phpMyAdmin
Step 1: Ensure you are logged into phpMyAdmin. Once logged in, you will be presented with the phpMyAdmin main screen.
Step 2: The main screen is divided into two sections. The left-hand side is in blue, where your database is listed. Below the database name, you will see the names of the tables contained within the database. The right-hand side is a large white window, where the actions will take place.
Step 3: Let's begin by learning how to export databases. To export a database, click on the database name in the left-hand panel. This action will open the right-hand panel, displaying the database's details.
Step 4: At the top of the right-hand side panel, you'll find a menu. Click on the "Export" button from this menu. This action will open a new screen called "View dump (schema) of the database."
Step 5: In this "View dump of the database" screen, you will find numerous options for exporting the database. One useful option is to export the entire database in SQL format, which can be easily imported later, serving as a backup. To use this option, scroll down almost to the bottom of the screen. On the left-hand side, you will see a radio button with the letters "SQL." Click on this radio button.
Step 6: Before proceeding, ensure that you have checked any additional options you want to include at the top of the screen. For example, you can choose to uncheck or check options such as "Add Auto_Increment Value" or "Add Into Comments," "Creation/Update/Check Dates," and more.
Step 7: When you're ready, scroll down further and check the "Save as file" box. Then click on the "Go" button. A pop-up will appear asking you what to do with the file you've chosen to export. Make sure to select "Save to disk" and then click "OK." This will complete the export process, and the database will be saved to your local computer.
Step 8: If you only wish to export a specific table, begin by clicking on the table name in the left-hand side. This action will open a window showing the details of the selected table on the right-hand side.
Step 9: Once again, click on the "Export" button from the menu at the top of the window. This will open the "View dump (schema) of the table" screen.
Step 10: In this screen, make sure to check the "SQL" option and any other desired options at the top. Then, scroll to the bottom, and click on "Save as file." Click "Go." A pop-up will ask what you want to do with the file. Ensure "Save to Disk" is checked and click "OK." This action completes the export of the table, saving it to your local computer.
Step 11: It's important to note that exporting a database will export all the tables within it if they are all selected. However, when exporting tables, only the selected table from within the database will be exported.
