Too many connections

Error Message

SQLSTATE[08004] [1040] Too many connections

Cause

The database has exceeded its maximum number of allowed connections. Common in high-traffic applications or when connections aren't being released properly.

Solution

Increase max_connections in MySQL config. Use connection pooling. Ensure queries are using transactions properly and connections are being released. Use the queue for heavy database operations.

Code Example

Fix

# Check current max connections
SHOW VARIABLES LIKE 'max_connections';

# Increase in MySQL config (my.cnf)
max_connections = 200

# In Laravel, configure persistent connections
'mysql' => [
    'driver' => 'mysql',
    'persistent' => true,
    // ...
],

# Monitor active connections
DB::select('SHOW STATUS LIKE \'Threads_connected\'');

Debugging Steps

Check current connection count in MySQL
Review application for connection leaks
Check if queue workers are holding connections
Monitor connection usage over time

Prevention

Use connection pooling. Close database connections properly. Offload heavy queries to queues. Monitor connection usage in production.