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How to Fix Microsoft Query Missing from Excel Data Menu
Question details
The Microsoft Query option is missing or has disappeared from the Excel Data menu, preventing connection to external data sources.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel / Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Trying to connect to a database or external data source using the Microsoft Query feature after a recent Microsoft 365 update.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft Query connector is no longer visible or accessible in the Data menu, often due to changes in licensing or connector availability.
Before attempting the workaround, navigate to File > Account in Excel to verify your Microsoft 365 subscription tier, as some data connectors are now restricted to specific Enterprise plans.
Use Power BI as a Blank Query Workaround
If Microsoft Query is restricted by your current Excel license, you can build the query in Power BI and import the M-code back into Excel.
This is the most reliable workaround if your enterprise plan no longer supports the Microsoft Query connector directly in Excel. Power BI Desktop is free and includes a fully featured Power Query editor.
Open Power BI Desktop, click on 'Get Data', and connect to your desired external data source just as you would have in Excel.
Once your data is loaded in the Power BI Power Query Editor, click the 'View' tab, select 'Advanced Editor', and copy all the generated M query code.
Open your Microsoft Excel workbook. Go to the 'Data' tab on the ribbon, click 'Get Data', select 'From Other Sources', and then choose 'Blank Query'.
In the Excel Power Query Editor, click 'Advanced Editor' on the Home or View tab. Paste the code you copied from Power BI over the existing text, and click 'Done' to load the data into your spreadsheet.
Verify Microsoft 365 License and Updates
Check if your organization has changed its Microsoft 365 licensing, which might have removed access to premium data connectors.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Spreadsheet Management
If Microsoft 365 licensing restrictions and disappearing features are disrupting your data workflows, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and incredibly stable alternative. Enjoy a familiar interface and excellent compatibility without expensive enterprise subscriptions.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install the suite.
- 3. Open Your Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing Excel workbooks instantly with zero formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft Query disappear from my Excel Data menu?
Microsoft often updates its Microsoft 365 apps, and access to legacy tools like Microsoft Query or certain premium data connectors is sometimes restricted based on your specific enterprise license or subscription tier.
Where is the Blank Query option located in Excel?
You can find the Blank Query option by navigating to the Data tab on the ribbon, clicking on 'Get Data', selecting 'From Other Sources', and then clicking 'Blank Query'.
Can I still connect to SQL databases without Microsoft Query?
Yes. You can use the standard 'From Database' options under 'Get Data' if available, or use the Power BI workaround to generate the M-code and paste it into Excel's Advanced Editor.
Is Power BI Desktop free to use for this workaround?
Yes, Power BI Desktop is entirely free to download and use. It features a robust Power Query Editor that operates using the exact same M-code as Microsoft Excel.
