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Data Connections in Power BI

BasicSkill Level
4.8+
3,136 reviews
Updated 02/2025
Discover the different ways you can enhance your Power BI data importing skills.
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Power BIData Manipulation2 hr9 videos24 Exercises1,750 XP39,300Statement of Accomplishment

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Course Description

Building Connections

Data connections are an essential part of Power BI. In this course, you will be introduced to the many different options for connecting to data.

Understand Power BI Desktop vs Service

You’ll learn the differences between Power BI Desktop and Power BI Service when it comes to data connections. You’ll also learn about the different ways that Power BI stores data when connecting to a source, and how you are able to amend connections after they have been made.

Utilize Parameters and M Language

Finally, you’ll learn how you can use parameters and M Language in Power BI Desktop to level up your handling of data import processes.

Prerequisites

Introduction to Power BI
1

Data Connections in Power BI

Whenever using Power BI, a data connection is required. In this chapter, you'll be introduced to commonly used data connections for Power BI. You'll also get an insight into the data connection features of Power BI Serice while finally having the chance to carry out your own database connection.
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2

Databases and More

It's time to take the next step in your data connections journey! Through hands-on exercises, you will interact with a new database connection and learn how different settings can be changed. You'll also learn about the different storage modes offered by Power BI and how you can use coding to alter the import process.
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3

Data Source Settings

In this chapter, you'll learn how to create parameters that can be used for incremental refreshes. You will also implement an incremental refresh on your data connection. Finally, you'll understand how M Language can be utilized to tackle issues with your data import processes.
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Data Connections in Power BI
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*4.8
from 3,136 reviews
83%
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  • Mark
    2 hours ago

  • Deepa
    7 hours ago

  • Peter
    10 hours ago

  • namagembe
    19 hours ago

  • Lerato
    yesterday

  • BRIAN ODHIAMBO
    yesterday

    Great explanation on M Language, Parameter, and Incremental in the last chapter of the course.

Mark

Deepa

namagembe

FAQs

Is this course suitable for beginners in Power BI?

Not quite. You should already be comfortable with Power BI's Data and Model tabs and understand basic data tables. A good starting point is completing the Introduction to Power BI course first.

What types of data sources will I learn to connect to?

You will practice connecting to CSV files, live web pages, and a MySQL database using ODBC, covering the most common connection types analysts encounter in real business environments.

What is the difference between Import and Direct Query, and when should I use each?

Import caches a snapshot of the data in memory, while Direct Query creates a live connection that always reflects the latest data. Use Direct Query when your dataset updates frequently and accuracy in real time matters.

What advanced connection features does the course cover?

The final chapter introduces parameters, incremental refresh, row-level security, and M language, giving you tools to manage and fine-tune connections in more complex reporting scenarios.

How does knowing data connections help in a business setting?

It lets analysts, data engineers, and database administrators link Power BI directly to company databases and files, so reports stay current and reflect the actual state of the organization's data infrastructure.

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