Connect an Access Database (MDB) in Windows Plesk

What is an MDB file?

A database is a store for information. Microsoft Access is a program that makes small databases. Its files end in .mdb (or .accdb in newer versions). It is like a spreadsheet with extra powers.

Some older websites, written in ASP, read data from such a file.

Plesk is a control panel, which is a web page for managing hosting. Ask Hostvento support if your plan is Windows with Plesk, and whether Access databases are allowed.

Before you start

• You need a Windows hosting plan. Linux plans cannot run Access files.
• Keep a copy of the MDB file on your own computer.

Step 1: upload the file

1. Log in to Plesk. Your welcome email has the link and login.
2. Click Files.
3. Open your site folder, often httpdocs.
4. Open or create a folder named App_Data or db. Keep it outside the open web folders if you can.
5. Click Upload Files and choose your MDB file.

Step 2: make a connection (DSN)

A DSN, or Data Source Name, is a short label that points to the database file. Your site uses the label instead of the long path.

1. In Plesk, go to Websites & Domains.

   

2. Open your domain.
3. Click Databases.
4. Click ODBC Data Sources.
5. Click Add ODBC DSN.

   

6. Type a name for the DSN, such as mydata.
7. Choose Microsoft Access Driver (*.mdb) from the driver list.

   

8. Click Configure if it is offered. Enter the path to your MDB file.
9. Click Test to check it.
10. Click OK to save.

Step 3: use it in your code

Your site can now use the DSN. In classic ASP, the connection line looks like this:

conn.Open "DSN=mydata"

This opens the database named by your DSN. You can also use a direct path with the server's full folder path.

Fix problems

• If you get "permission denied", the folder may be read-only. Access needs write rights to save changes.
• If Plesk does not list the driver, ask support. Open a support ticket.

Quick recap

• An MDB file is a Microsoft Access database.
• It works only on Windows hosting.

  

• Upload the file, then add an ODBC DSN in Plesk.
• Use the DSN name in your code. Make sure the folder is writable.