Maximizing Database Capacity on Affordable Hosting Plans: What Are the Possibilities?

Recently, I discovered that my most economical hosting plan with NameCheap includes an impressive 50 databases. That number caught my attention — it’s quite substantial for a basic hosting package. Naturally, I began to wonder: what are the typical use cases for such a generous allocation?

Having maintained this hosting environment for several years, I can say I’ve only utilized a handful of these databases. One is a relic from an old phpBB forum I once operated — now restored solely as a historical archive. The other was dedicated to a custom tool I developed years ago for an online gaming community, used to monitor game activity.

My approach to website development tends to differ from the typical user in 2025. I prefer hand-coding sites with tools like Notepad++, avoiding content management systems like WordPress whenever possible. This means I may be a bit out of touch with current best practices and common usage patterns.

Given this context, I’m curious: what are the common reasons someone might need 50 databases on a beginner or entry-level hosting plan? Are these databases primarily for complex sites, multiple small projects, or perhaps for hosting different applications? I’d love to hear insights from those with experience managing such hosting environments.