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Fix Excel External Query and Connection Data Not Refreshing
Question details
The user needs to restore the automated refresh capability for an external query pulling NSE trading data in an Excel workbook.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to automatically refresh NSE trading data every five minutes using an external connection.
- Observed behavior
- Excel reports that the data source was changed or removed, interrupting the automated refresh process, although some recent data still updates.
Verify that your internet connection is stable and ensure that the external data source, such as the NSE trading website or database, is currently accessible from your browser or network.
Check External Data Connection Properties
Verify your connection strings and permissions to ensure Excel can still locate and access the external data source.
Often, data refresh issues occur because the web URL, file path, or authentication token for the external data source has changed or expired. Updating the connection definition can restore functionality.
Open your workbook, navigate to the "Data" tab on the Excel ribbon, and click on "Queries & Connections" to open the side pane.
Right-click the problematic connection in the pane and select "Properties" from the context menu.
Switch to the "Definition" tab. Check the connection string or Command text to ensure the URL or file path matches the current location of your data source.
Update any outdated paths, click "OK" to save your changes, and then click "Refresh All" on the Data tab to verify if the warning is resolved.
Contact Microsoft 365 Administrator for Support
If the connection settings are correct but the issue persists, escalate the problem to Microsoft support via your IT administrator.
Try WPS Office for Your Data Management Needs
If you are experiencing persistent external data refresh issues in Microsoft Excel, consider trying WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, lightweight, and free Office suite that makes managing spreadsheets, standard formulas, and daily data tasks seamless.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office from the official website and run the lightweight installer.
- 2. Open Your Workbook: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing .xlsx file directly without needing to convert it.
- 3. Analyze Your Data: Use the familiar Data tab to sort, filter, and analyze your trading data effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Excel say my data source was changed or removed?
This error usually occurs if the website URL, database server, or local file path where your query retrieves its data has been altered, moved, or blocked by local firewall rules.
How can I change the automatic refresh frequency for external data in Excel?
Go to the Data tab, click Queries & Connections, right-click your active connection, choose Properties, and under the Usage tab, adjust the 'Refresh every X minutes' setting.
Do I need administrator rights to fix a Power Query error?
You do not need admin rights to modify query connections within your own workbook. However, if the issue stems from Microsoft 365 service restrictions or blocked network ports, you will need your IT administrator's assistance.
Can I open my Excel files with external queries in WPS Office?
Yes, WPS Office is highly compatible with .xlsx files and supports viewing and analyzing standard data, formulas, and pivot tables. While advanced Power Query automated refreshes might require specific Microsoft environments, you can seamlessly open and manage the data in WPS Spreadsheets.
