Creating a connection from Excel to a SQL Server database allows you to import data directly into your spreadsheet, keeping it updated as the source data changes. The process involves using Excel's built-in data connection features.
Here's how you can connect Excel to SQL Server, based on the standard method:
Steps to Connect Excel to SQL Server
To establish the connection, you will navigate through Excel's data sourcing options.
- Navigate to the Data tab in the Excel ribbon.
- Locate the Get External Data group.
- Click on From Other Sources.
- Select From SQL Server from the dropdown list.
This action opens the Data Connection Wizard, which will guide you through the remaining configuration steps.
Using the Data Connection Wizard
Once the wizard appears, the next critical step is to identify the SQL Server you wish to connect to.
On the Connect to Database Server page within the wizard:
-
In the Server name box, you must specify the name of the server where the SQL Server data you want to use resides.
-
You may also need to provide authentication details (Windows Authentication is common, or you might need SQL Server Authentication with a username and password).
-
After specifying the server name and authentication, you will typically click "Next" to select the specific database and tables or views you want to import data from.
Here's a quick look at where to start:
| Excel Tab | Group | Starting Point |
|---|---|---|
| Data | Get External Data | From Other Sources > From SQL Server |
What You Need Before Starting
Before you begin the process, ensure you have the following information:
- The exact name of the SQL Server instance you want to connect to. This might be just a server name (e.g.,
SQLSERVER01) or include an instance name (e.g.,SQLSERVER01\SQLEXPRESS). - Authentication method: Do you need to use Windows Authentication (if your Windows login has access) or SQL Server Authentication (requiring a specific username and password)?
- The name of the specific database on the server that contains the data you need.
Following these steps initiates the connection process, allowing you to pull data from your SQL Server database into your Excel workbook for analysis or reporting.
