Restoring Your Data in Xampp: A Step-by-Step Guide

Restoring your data can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will walk you through the exact steps needed to restore a MySQL or MariaDB data folder safely using a backup. Whether you're fixing a database crash or migrating to a new server, following these instructions will keep your data intact and your applications running smoothly.

Data Restoration Workflow


🛡️ Preparation is Key

Before you begin, it’s crucial to back up your existing "data" folder. This ensures you can revert to the original state if anything goes wrong.

✅ Step 1: Back up your current data folder

  1. Navigate to the xampp/mysql path

  2. Right-click it → CopyPaste in the same directory.

  3. Rename the copied folder to something like data_copy or data_backup.

✅ Step 2: Rename the backup folder

  1. Find the folder named backup (this contains your restored data).

  2. Right-click it → Copy → Paste in the same directory.

  3. Rename it to data.

🔄 Restoration Process

Once the backups are in place, follow these steps to restore your data:

📁 Step 3: Open the new data folder

  • Navigate to the newly renamed data folder (formerly backup).

📁 Step 4: Copy essential folders

  • Go to the data_copy folder.

  • Copy all folders except the following:

    • mysql

    • performance_schema

    • phpmyadmin

    • test

  • Paste the copied folders into the new data folder. Overwrite if prompted.

📄 Step 5: Copy ibdata file

  • In the data_copy folder, find the file named ibdata1.

  • Copy and paste it into the new data folder.


✅ Verification

After completing the steps:

  • Restart your MySQL/MariaDB server.

  • Verify your databases and tables are working correctly.

  • Check any applications or websites relying on this data to confirm full restoration.


❗ Troubleshooting

If something goes wrong:

  • Don’t worry. You still have the data_copy backup.

  • Revert to it and repeat the process carefully.

  • Make sure not to skip any steps, especially the ibdata file.


📌 Final Thoughts

This method ensures a clean, safe restoration of your MySQL data environment. Backups are your best friend—keep them current and clearly labeled!

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