Database connections

Data Connections in Power BI

Iason Prassides

Content Developer, DataCamp

Databases in Power BI

More than 35 different databases supported
Power BI connects to local and cloud-based databases
Databases are a type of data source
Datasets are a collection of the data source and data itself

Selection of database options in Power_BI

Storage modes

The three main storage modes in Power BI

Data sources, such as databases, can have multiple connection types - also referred to as storage modes
There are 3 main connection types:
- Import
- DirectQuery
- Live
Import storage mode is the default option
DirectQuery storage mode not as widely available as Import
Live storage mode not as commonly used

Storage modes: Pros and cons

A table with the pros and cons of the three main storage modes

Import mode

Default setting that brings in data from data source

Image of a standard data source connection

Import mode

Default setting that brings in data from data source
Can transform and manipulate data
Access to full capabilities of Power BI

Import mode connection with data being cached

DirectQuery mode

Available for certain data sources

Image of a standard data source connection

DirectQuery mode

Available for certain data sources
Power BI queries data source when required
Allows for reduced size of data connections

DirectQuery storage mode connection with database schema being copied

Changing data connections

Data sources are fluid and can change regularly
Data connections can be amended after being made
Users can alter a data connection using a number of options in Power BI Desktop
A refresh button is available for quick updates

Data source settings in Power BI

Let's practice!

Data Connections in Power BI

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