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Fix MySQL LOAD DATA INFILE/OUTFILE Errors on Bluehost

Are you getting an error when trying to run the LOAD DATA INFILE or OUTFILE command in MySQL on your Bluehost server? This is a common issue due to security restrictions on shared hosting. Learn why this error occurs and how to fix it with simple, secure alternatives.

  • Why You're Seeing This Error
  • Use LOAD DATA LOCAL Instead
  • What's the difference?
  • SSH-Based Alternatives to INFILE/OUTFILE
  • LOAD DATA Alternative: Import via SSH
  • OUTFILE Alternative: Export via SSH
  • Additional Resources
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Summary

Why You're Seeing This Error​

On Bluehost, shared hosting servers, the default LOAD DATA INFILE and OUTFILE functions are disabled for security reasons. These commands try to read from or write to files on the server, which could pose a risk if misused.

Use LOAD DATA LOCAL Instead​

To bypass this restriction, use the LOAD DATA LOCAL in your query.

What's the difference?​

  • LOAD DATA INFILE = server reads the file (not allowed)
  • LOAD DATA LOCAL INFILE = your computer reads the file and sends the data to the server (allowed)

SSH-Based Alternatives to INFILE/OUTFILE​

If you're comfortable using SSH, here are alternative methods:

LOAD DATA Alternative: Import via SSH​

$ echo "source databasefile.sql" | mysql -u user -password databasename

OUTFILE Alternative: Export via SSH​

$ mysql -u user -password databasename > outputfile.sql

Tip: You need SSH access to use these commands. Learn more:

  • What is SSH Access and How to Enable It in Your Hosting Account
  • What Are SSH Connections - How To Edit In PuTTY, Mac, & Linux

Additional Resources​

  • MySQL Documentation – 15.2.9 LOAD DATA Statement
  • MySQL Errors on Bluehost – Local MySQL Can't Connect to Server
  • Database Import/Export Guide
  • How to Import or Export a MySQL Database Using phpMyAdmin
  • How to Import and Export MySQL Database Using SSH

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: Can I enable LOAD DATA INFILE on shared hosting? A: No. For security reasons, this is restricted. Use LOAD DATA LOCAL instead. Q: What does "permission denied" mean with LOAD DATA? A: It usually means your server can't access the file. Using LOCAL resolves this by loading the file from your local machine. Q: Do I need root access to fix this? A: No. SSH access is sufficient to use the provided alternatives.

Summary​

If you're encountering the "Unable to Load Data INFILE/OUTFILE" error on your Bluehost hosting account, it's likely due to built-in server security restrictions. The easiest workaround is to use the LOAD DATA LOCAL command or perform imports/exports securely via SSH. These methods allow you to manage your MySQL database without hitting server limitations.