MS Excel - External Data Connections

External data connections allow Excel to pull information from sources outside the workbook. Instead of manually copying and pasting values every time data changes, Excel creates a live link to another file, a database, or an online system. When the source updates, the worksheet can refresh automatically, keeping analysis accurate without repeated effort.

Connecting to Other Excel and CSV Files

Excel can link cells from one workbook to another, useful when multiple teams maintain separate sheets that feed into a master summary. Connections can bring in values, tables, or named ranges from local or shared folders. This avoids duplication and ensures numbers remain consistent across several documents without editing each file individually.

Importing Data from Databases

Excel can retrieve information directly from systems like SQL Server, Access, or enterprise data warehouses. These connections extract large datasets into organized tables for reporting, forecasting, or trend analysis. Instead of downloading static exports, users refresh the connection and pull the latest information with one click.

Web and Cloud-Based Data Sources

Connections can also point to web pages, cloud systems, and online APIs when data is available publicly or through business platforms. Excel reads structured tables from websites or services, transforming them into usable columns. This is helpful for retrieving stock prices, currency rates, or dynamic lists that change frequently.

Refreshing, Updating, and Managing Links

Excel offers tools to refresh data manually, automatically at timed intervals, or every time the workbook opens. The Queries & Connections panel tracks all linked sources, showing which ones succeeded or failed. Good management ensures links don’t break, keeps reports reliable, and saves teams from manual imports every time data changes.