Data Import & Export

Fix Excel Data Connection Error Caused by Another Process

Olivia Miller Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is experiencing a data connection error when attempting to import data from a source workbook into an existing Excel file, with the system stating the file is being used by another process.

Fix Excel Data Connection Error Caused by Another Process

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Importing data from an external Excel workbook (Test.xlsx) into an existing workbook using the Get Data feature.
Observed behavior: Excel displays an error message indicating that the source workbook cannot be accessed because it is in use by another process. The import fails in the existing workbook but succeeds if initiated in a brand new workbook.

Before you start

Ensure that the source Excel file is not currently open in another program, active user session, or locked by a cloud storage synchronization client.

Solution 1Recommended

Use 'From Table/Range' or a Blank Power Query

Changing the import method bypasses standard file-locking mechanisms that trigger when opening a source and destination in the same environment.

When importing data from related workbooks, the standard 'From File' method can occasionally cause conflict. Utilizing the 'From Table/Range' feature or manually pointing a blank query to the current workbook can resolve the process lock.

Open your destination workbook

Launch Excel and open the existing workbook where you want to import the data.

Use From Table/Range

Navigate to the 'Data' tab on the ribbon. If the data is within the same environment, select 'From Table/Range' instead of 'From File'.

Create a Blank Query

Alternatively, go to Data > Get Data > From Other Sources > Blank Query, and manually input the formula to reference your source workbook.

Use 'From Table/Range' or a Blank Power Query

Alternative Import Method: Using a blank Power Query gives you more granular control over how Excel handles background data connections.

Solution 2

Terminate Duplicate Background Processes

Hidden instances of Excel running in the background may be holding a lock on your source file.

Solution 3

Verify File Storage Location and Sync Status

Cloud storage solutions like OneDrive or SharePoint may temporarily lock the file while syncing.

Seamless Data Management

Import External Data Smoothly with WPS Spreadsheet

If you frequently encounter file locking issues and data connection errors in Microsoft Excel, consider switching to WPS Office. WPS Spreadsheet provides a lightweight, highly compatible environment for managing and importing your spreadsheet data seamlessly without aggressive file locks.

1. Download WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office Free from the official website.
2. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and create or open your destination workbook.
3. Navigate to the Data Tab: Click on the 'Data' tab located on the top ribbon menu.
4. Import Your Data: Use the built-in 'Import Data' feature to securely select your source Excel file and bring in your data without encountering complex process-lock errors.

Free and lightweight Office suiteFully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) formatsEasy-to-use data import and management toolsFamiliar user interface with no learning curve

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel say my source workbook is being used by another process?

This error occurs when the Windows operating system registers that another program, a background Excel instance, or a cloud syncing tool (like OneDrive) is currently reading or writing to the file, thereby preventing the 'Get Data' query from accessing it safely.

How can I check if OneDrive is causing the Excel data connection error?

You can check this by navigating to the folder containing your source file. If the file has a sync icon (circular arrows), OneDrive is actively processing it. Temporarily pausing OneDrive syncing via the system tray icon can help you confirm if it is the root cause.

Does creating a new workbook actually fix the data import error?

Creating a new workbook often resolves the issue if the original destination workbook has corrupted cache data or conflicting legacy queries that mistakenly keep a background lock on the source file.

Excel & Data Problems