# Deleting MySQL database tables using phpMyAdmin

> Delete (drop) MySQL database tables safely in phpMyAdmin, and know what to back up before you start.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/databases/deleting-mysql-database-tables-using-phpmyadmin/

phpMyAdmin allows you to manage MySQL databases directly from cPanel. One of its functions is deleting (dropping) tables. This should be done carefully, as deleting a table permanently removes all of its data.

## Warning

- Deleting a table **cannot be undone**.
- Always make sure you have a **current backup** of your database before proceeding.
- If you want to delete an entire database, use the **MySQL Databases tool in cPanel**, not phpMyAdmin.

## Steps to Delete a Table

1. **Log in to cPanel.**
2. On the **Tools page → Databases section**, click **phpMyAdmin**.

   - phpMyAdmin opens in a new window.
3. In the left pane, click the **database name** that contains the table you want to delete.

   - Example: `example_wordpress`.
4. In the right pane, select the **check box** for the table you want to delete.
5. From the **With selected** dropdown, choose **Drop**.

   - phpMyAdmin will ask for confirmation.
6. Click **Yes** to confirm deletion.

## Alternative: Empty a Table

- If you want to keep the table but remove all of its data:

  - Select the table → choose **Empty** instead of **Drop**.
- This clears all rows but preserves the table structure.

## Foreign Key Checks

- By default, phpMyAdmin enforces **foreign key checks** to prevent accidental deletion of related data.
- You can disable this by clearing the **Enable foreign key checks** box, but only do so if you are certain of the consequences.