Troubleshooting "Can't connect to MySQL server on 'localhost' (10061)" Error

Encountering the "Can't connect to MySQL server on 'localhost' (10061)" error when configuring a MySQL instance on Windows 2003 can be frustrating. This article explores a common cause and provides a solution to resolve this issue.

Potential Cause

One potential reason for this error is that the MySQL server application (mysqld.exe) is not running. Verifying that the MySQL service is started and running can resolve the connection problem.

Solution

To start the MySQL server, follow these steps:

1. Open the Command Prompt. Navigate to the MySQL bin directory (usually located at "C:\Program Files\MySQL\MySQL Server 5.5\bin").

2. Install the MySQL service. Run the following command in the Command Prompt:

   "C:\Program Files\MySQL\MySQL Server 5.5\bin\mysqld" --install

3. Start the MySQL service. Open the Services application (press Windows Key R, type "services.msc", and click "OK").
4. Locate the MySQL service. Scroll down the list of services and find the "MySQL" service.
5. Start the service. Right-click on the MySQL service and select "Start".

Once the MySQL service is running, you should be able to connect to the MySQL server without encountering the "Can't connect to MySQL server on 'localhost' (10061)" error.