Dump MySQL Database in Command Line as Root

Here we explain a command used to quickly create a MySQL database dump.  This process involves using the command line as the root user on a VPS or Dedicated server.  This will allow you to back up a sites database from the command line in the directory you are currently working in. 

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Create Site Database Backup

IMPORTANT: This solution will require root access. If this needs to be obtained, follow the guide on requesting root access.

1. SSH into the relevant server as root
2. Switch to the directory that you wish to dump the database into
   EXAMPLE: 

   cd /home/userna5

   REPLACE:  Use an actual cPanel username instead of userna5 in the example above.  Or, choose another directory if you wish to do so.  
3. Run the following code, which will ask for the name of the database and create a MySQL dump in your current working directory
   Note: If needed, follow the guide on finding a WordPress sites database name.  
   

   read -p "What is the database name?: " dbname; mysqldump -Q --add-drop-table "$dbname" > "$dbname-$(date -I).sql"