What Is the Prerequisite For Connecting to a Database in SQL Database?

Power BI Desktop is one of the most important data examination tools to date. However, Power BI itself can’t do much for you if you don’t have at least some data stored and ready to be put to work.

Power BI Data Sources

Once you’ve imported your data into Power BI, the data itself matters more than its storage source. You can generally perform the same functions and queries once you’ve uploaded your data, no matter where the data comes from.

However, you can import your data from several sources. When you click on the Get Data button, you’ll see a list of options:

• All
• File
• Database
• Power Platform
• Azure
• Online Services
• Other

The Azure SQL Database is just one of many resources that you can use for data storage. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of Azure SQL Database with Power BI. We’ll also explore the prerequisites for connecting to a database in Azure SQL Database.

Azure SQL Database

The Azure SQL Database is a managed database service that you can use to store the data that you’ll examine in Power BI. You can use it to import entire tables into Power BI and run queries.

It’s important to note, though, that while Power BI Desktop can connect to the SQL Server, the Power BI Service cannot.

The Azure SQL Database has several features and benefits that Power BI users find helpful. The most important one, though, is the fact that it lets users import their data quickly, simply, and in large batches.

Prerequisites for Connecting to a Database

How can you connect with an SQL database in Power BI Desktop? First, you’ll need to make sure that you have the following prerequisites in place:

• Power BI Desktop installed
• SQL Server Installed
• At least one set of data uploaded to the SQL database
• An on-premises data gateway installed on the same computer where you’ve installed Power BI Desktop and the SQL Server

Once you’ve met all of the following criteria, you can start uploading data from the Azure SQL Database and working with that data in Power BI Desktop.

How to Connect to a Database

You’ve met all of the prerequisites for connecting to a database, so now what do you do? Once you’re ready to start working with your database, here’s how you can get started:

• Find the Home ribbon on the main Power BI Desktop screen.
• Click on the Get Data
• Hover over the Database
• Double click on SQL Server Database.
• Enter your parameters.

From there, Power BI will import your tables and show you the relationships between those tables. Click on the Load button once you’re ready to import your tables into Power BI Desktop.

Using Power BI Reports Scheduler With Azure SQL Database

Once you’ve connected to your Azure SQL Database within Power BI, you can work with that data manually and send your reports to various destinations as needed.

However, as helpful as Power BI and the Azure SQL Database can be on their own, there is a simpler way to work with your data and send your reports.

Specifically, PBRS from ChristianSteven Software can simplify the above actions. PBRS enhances, automates, and streamlines various Power BI functions, including functions that concern your SQL-stored data.

For example, with PBRS, you can automate your report scheduling based on date, data changes, and other criteria. You can choose your own criteria, so PBRS will deliver your reports exactly when and where you need them.

PBRS also lets you create custom tasks while you work with your data. Some of those custom tasks include:

• Execute SQL Script
• Insert, Update, Delete Database Record
• Create, Delete Database Table
• Create, Delete Table Column

With automation and customization, you can get exactly what you need from your Power BI experience. You can save time while creating your reports and take advantage of features that you would not have otherwise had.

Learn More about PBRS With ChristianSteven Software

At ChristianSteven Software, we want to make your business life easier by helping you maximize your data usage. Our comprehensive solutions are designed to save you time and effort.

Want to learn more about how PBRS from ChristianSteven can help you? Then schedule your live demo today to see how it works. We’ll walk you through the PBRS process at a time that works best for you.

If you’ve already heard enough and want to get started with your free trial, visit our PBRS page to find out how. You can also get a free quote.

If you have any questions about PBRS or any of the other solutions from ChristianSteven Software, contact us now. The ChristianSteven team would love to hear from you, and we’d be happy to answer all of your questions.

Get Features PDFStart Free Trial