The wp-config.php file is one of the most critical files in a WordPress installation. It acts as the bridge between the WordPress file system and the MySQL database. In addition, the file includes crucial settings about your site’s server configuration. Here’s a breakdown of some of the critical functions and details stored in the wp-config.php file:

  1. Database Connection Details: The wp-config.php file stores the database name, username, password, and host used by WordPress to connect to the database where your website data is stored.
  2. Security Keys: These contain authentication keys and salts to encrypt the information stored in users’ cookies. This is a crucial part of your WordPress site’s security.
  3. Database Table Prefix: For security reasons, WordPress allows you to change the default prefix used for the database tables. This setting is stored in the wp-config.php file.
  4. Debug Mode: If you troubleshoot issues on your WordPress site, you can enable the debug mode from the wp-config.php file. WordPress will start displaying PHP errors, notices, and warnings when enabled, which can help you identify any issues.
  5. ABSPATH: This PHP constant defines the absolute path to the WordPress directory. WordPress uses it to include files from the correct location.
  6. Language and Charset Settings: If you want to specify the site language or the database charset/collation, you can do that in the wp-config.php file.
  7. Overrides and Advanced Settings: You can override specific default settings (like autosave interval, post revision numbers, filesystem method, etc.) and enable or disable features by adding specific constants to your wp-config.php file.

Because of its importance, it’s recommended only to edit the wp-config.php file if you know what you’re doing. Incorrect changes can cause your website to stop working. Please always keep a backup before making any changes to the file.