How to Fix Microsoft Access Linked Tables Displaying #Deleted
Question details
Users need a solution for Microsoft Access linked tables showing #Deleted instead of actual data records.
- Product
- Microsoft Access, SQL Server
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Viewing linked SQL Server tables that use nvarchar columns as primary keys after upgrading Access to version 2205.
- Observed behavior
- The linked tables fail to render the data and display #Deleted in all rows.
Ensure you have administrative access to your SQL Server database and permission to modify table schemas or ODBC configurations if necessary.
Update Microsoft Office to the Latest Version
Installing the latest Microsoft Office and Access updates can resolve known bugs introduced in version 2205 regarding nvarchar primary keys.
Microsoft frequently releases patches to address linking errors between Access and SQL Server. Applying the latest build is the most direct way to restore functionality without altering your database schema.
Launch Microsoft Access, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' from the bottom of the menu.
Under the 'Product Information' section, click on the 'Update Options' drop-down button.
Select 'Update Now'. Wait for Microsoft Office to download and install the latest updates, then restart Access and test your linked tables.
Use a Numeric Primary Key Instead of nvarchar
If updating does not resolve the issue, changing the primary key data type on the SQL Server side serves as a reliable workaround.
Update Your ODBC Driver
Ensure your ODBC drivers are up-to-date and compatible with the latest Access builds.
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While complex database syncing issues in Microsoft Access might require server-side troubleshooting, you can handle your daily data tracking and documentation efficiently with WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for spreadsheets, documents, and presentations without the hassle of heavy database errors.
- 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 installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Open and Edit Data: Launch WPS Spreadsheets to easily import, edit, and analyze your exported database files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft Access show #Deleted in linked tables?
This typically occurs when Access loses synchronization with the underlying SQL Server data. It is a known bug associated with upgrading to Access build 2205 when linked tables use nvarchar columns as their primary keys.
Can I roll back my Microsoft Access version to fix this error?
Yes, reverting to an earlier build of Microsoft Office prior to version 2205 can serve as a temporary workaround until you can apply a permanent patch from Microsoft.
Does the #Deleted error affect all SQL Server data types?
No, this specific bug has been primarily reported when linked tables utilize nvarchar columns for their primary keys. Numeric primary keys like INT or BIGINT generally continue to function correctly.
What should I do if the issue persists after updating Access?
If updating Access and your ODBC drivers does not resolve the issue, you should review your linked-table schema or open a direct support case with Microsoft, providing your specific Access and SQL Server versions.
