The next step is creating an empty database for Joomla. If you're new to Joomla, the concept of a web application using a database may take some getting used to. The database isn't a regular file that you can create (or copy, move, or delete) on the web server. To create and manage a database, you use special software (such as phpMyAdmin, a popular tool to manage MySQL databases). Most web hosting companies offer you database access through a web interface (usually called a control panel). Popular control panels are Plesk, DirectAdmin, and CPanel. You'll find details on the control panel that's available to you in your hosting account's information.

In the following example, we'll use Plesk 8 to create a new database. If your hosting company provides another control panel, the basic procedure won't be very different. However, if you're not sure how to access your web server control panel, your web hosting provider should be able to provide you with the...