Connecting to MySQL via SSH with PHP

Question

Is it possible to connect to a MySQL database, on remote server, via SSH using PHP that is installed on my local computer?

I am a bit confused on this subject. My shared hosting provider suggests I use programs like MySQL Query Browser and Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio Express.

I have done some research on SSH at php.net (as well as other places) but their manual on the subject is not very helpful.

Answer 1

Yes. You'll need to set up a SSH tunnel, and connect via TCP/IP.

Answer 2

If you are unable to setup a tunnel as mentioned above, you can alternatively execute commands yourself over an open socket. Look into fsockopen.