If you have lost your osCommerce admin password and cannot log into the backend, you can reset it directly in the database using phpMyAdmin.
One SQL query resets the password
Open phpMyAdmin (cPanel > Databases > phpMyAdmin), select your osCommerce database, click the SQL tab, and run:
UPDATE administrators SET user_password = MD5('NewPassword123') WHERE user_name = 'admin';
Replace NewPassword123 with your desired password and admin with your admin username.
01. Step by Step
- Log into cPanel > Databases > phpMyAdmin
- Select your osCommerce database from the left sidebar
- Click the SQL tab and run the UPDATE query above
- Log into osCommerce admin with the new password
- Change the password again through the admin panel immediately, so osCommerce stores it with its proper hashing method
MD5 is not a secure hashing algorithm. The query above is a quick workaround for recovery only. Always change the password again through the osCommerce admin interface immediately after logging in, which stores it with proper security hashing.
osCommerce has not seen significant development in several years. If you are running an online store, consider migrating to a more actively maintained platform like WooCommerce (WordPress), PrestaShop, or OpenCart, all of which are available via Softaculous in cPanel. See How to Install Shopping Cart Software.
For other CMS password resets, see Joomla Password Reset. For general database management, see View/Modify Data in MySQL.
Locked Out?
If you cannot reset the password yourself, open a ticket and we can help.
Open a Support TicketQuick Recap
- Run the UPDATE query in phpMyAdmin
- Log in with the new password
- Change it again through admin for proper hashing
- MD5 is temporary only
- Consider migrating to WooCommerce or PrestaShop
CMS password recovery · Last updated March 2026 · Browse all General articles
