[Fixed]! Data Connection Not Refreshing in Excel

When we import some data from an external file and create a connection among them, it helps us to update the dataset automatically if any change occurs in the parent file. However, sometimes, this data connection is not refreshing simultaneously. In this article, we will show you three possible solutions to fix the data connection that is not refreshing in Excel. If you are also curious about it, download our practice workbook and follow us.

To demonstrate the solutions, we consider a dataset where we import the data from another Excel file.

Data connection in between two Excel file

Now, when the data of our main file gets some modification, those updates don’t show in the new file. We will show you how to fix this refreshing issue.

You can see in the image shown below:

Data connection not refreshing in Excel file

Note

All the operations of this article are accomplished by using Microsoft Office 365 application.


1. Inputting Accurate Data Importing File Destination to Fix Data Connection Not Refreshing in Excel

The absence of a parent data file in the denoted destination may prevent the refresh of data connection in an Excel spreadsheet. The procedure to fix this issue is given below:

📌 Steps:

  • First of all, in the Data tab, click on the Edit Links command from the Queries & Connections group.

Launching Queries & Connections option to fix Excel data connection is not refreshing

  • As a result, a small dialog box called Edit Links will appear.
  • Now, click on the Change Source option.

Choosing to suitable option to denote the file path

  • Another dialog box called Change Source will come in front of you.
  • Then, go to that location and select the original file. Here, we choose our Income_List file.
  • Finally, click OK.

  • At last, click the Close button to close the dialog box.

excel data connection not refreshing

  • You will notice that the data will refresh within a second.

Input Accurate Data Importing File Destination to fix Excel Data Connection Is not Refreshing

Thus, we can say that our procedure works perfectly, and we are able to fix our problem is that the data connection is not refreshing in Excel.

Read More: How to Refresh Data Connection in Excel Without Opening File


2. Setting the Refreshing Option in the Beginning to Fix Data Connection Not Refreshing in Excel

By setting the refreshing time in the beginning or in the close, we can fix the trouble that is Excel data connection is not refreshing. The steps of this approach are given as follows:

📌 Steps:

  • First, click on a cell outside the data range.
  • Now, in the Data tab, click on the Queries & Connections option from the Queries & Connections group.

Opening Queries & Connection window to fix data connection is not refreshing

  • As a result, a side window called Queries & Connections will appear.

  • Then, go to the Connections tab.
  • After that, right-click on the connection field and click on Properties.

Launching the Properties window for choosing the proper option

  • Another dialog box called the Connection Properties dialog box will come in front of you.
  • Next, in the Usage tab, check the Refresh data when opening the file from the Refresh control section.
  • In the end, click OK to close the dialog box.

  • You will notice that when you open this file, Excel will ask you if you want to refresh the data or not.

Set Refreshing Option in Beginning to Fix Data Connection Is Not Refreshing in Excel

Hence, we can say that we are able to fix our problem.

Read More: External Data Connections Have Been Disabled in Excel 


3. Installing Updated Version of Excel

In most cases, this problem is found in the older version of Excel. In the updated version of Excel, the application can find the parent file until we change the drive location. So, we recommend you use the updated version of Microsoft Office or Office 365 application to avoid such a problem.


Download Practice Workbook

Download this practice workbook for practice while you are reading this article.


Conclusion

That’s the end of this article. I hope that this article will be helpful for you and that you will be able to fix the data connection that is not refreshing in Excel. Please share any further queries or recommendations with us in the comments section below if you have any further questions or recommendations.


Related Articles

<< Go Back to Excel Data Connections | Importing Data in Excel | Learn Excel

Get FREE Advanced Excel Exercises with Solutions!
Soumik Dutta
Soumik Dutta

Soumik Dutta, having earned a BSc in Naval Architecture & Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, plays a key role as an Excel & VBA Content Developer at ExcelDemy. Driven by a profound passion for research and innovation, he actively immerses himself in Excel. In his role, Soumik not only skillfully addresses complex challenges but also demonstrates enthusiasm and expertise in gracefully navigating tough situations, underscoring his unwavering commitment to consistently deliver exceptional, high-quality content that... Read Full Bio

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Advanced Excel Exercises with Solutions PDF

 

 

ExcelDemy
Logo