Power Query Problems

How to Fix the Cannot Connect to SharePoint File Error in Excel

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing a persistent SharePoint connection error in Excel even after removing external workbook links.

Fixing the 'Cannot Connect to SharePoint File' Error in Excel

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to clear broken SharePoint file references to stop connection error prompts from appearing when opening the file.
Observed behavior: The Excel workbook continues to display a SharePoint connection error due to hidden references stored in Power Queries, connections, or the Data Model.

Before you start

Before troubleshooting, create a backup copy of your Excel workbook. This ensures you can restore your original data if you accidentally delete an active and necessary data connection.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove Hidden SharePoint References in Queries & Connections

Delete or update obsolete Power Query connections that are triggering the SharePoint connection error in the background.

Even if standard cell links have been removed, Excel relies on background connections for data imports. If a Power Query was previously configured to pull data from a SharePoint list or file, it will continue to attempt a connection until the query itself is deleted or updated.

Open Queries & Connections

Open your Excel workbook, navigate to the 'Data' tab on the top ribbon, and click on 'Queries & Connections'.

Locate Problematic Queries

In the right-hand pane, review the list of queries. Look for queries displaying a warning icon or hover over them to see if their data source points to the problematic SharePoint URL.

Delete or Edit the Reference

Right-click the query causing the error. Select 'Delete' to remove it completely. Alternatively, click 'Edit' to open the Power Query Editor and update the 'Source' step to point to a valid file.

Remove Hidden SharePoint References in Queries & Connections

Tip: If you are sharing the workbook for external support, create a sanitized copy by removing all sensitive columns while leaving these queries intact for troubleshooting.

Solution 2

Clear Obsolete Links in the Data Model (Power Pivot)

Inspect the Excel Data Model for background data connections that might still reference the SharePoint file.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel keep asking for a SharePoint password?

This usually occurs if your workbook contains a Power Query, external data connection, or linked cell that references a secure SharePoint file. You must remove or update the connection in the 'Queries & Connections' pane to stop the prompt.

How do I find hidden links in my Excel workbook?

You can uncover hidden links by checking 'Edit Links' under the Data tab, reviewing the 'Queries & Connections' pane, inspecting the Name Manager (under Formulas) for named ranges pointing to external files, and checking the Power Pivot Data Model.

Can I share a sanitized workbook without exposing confidential data?

Yes. To share a sanitized workbook for troubleshooting connection errors, make a copy of your file, delete sensitive rows and columns, and replace confidential text with dummy data while keeping the problematic queries and connections intact.

Excel & Data Problems