SQL Server connection in Power BI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the first step to connect Power BI to a SQL Server database?

Open Power BI Desktop, then click on 'Get Data' and select 'SQL Server' as the data source.

beginner

What information do you need to provide to connect to a SQL Server in Power BI?

You need the server name (or IP address), the database name (optional), and your authentication method (Windows or SQL Server authentication).

beginner

What authentication methods can you use to connect Power BI to SQL Server?

You can use Windows Authentication (uses your Windows login) or SQL Server Authentication (requires username and password).

intermediate

Why is it important to choose the right data connectivity mode in Power BI when connecting to SQL Server?

Because Import mode loads data into Power BI for fast analysis, while DirectQuery queries the database live, affecting performance and freshness.

intermediate

How can you ensure your SQL Server connection in Power BI is secure?

Use encrypted connections, strong passwords, and limit user permissions on the SQL Server database.

Which option do you select first in Power BI Desktop to connect to SQL Server?

A New Measure

B Transform Data

C Publish

D Get Data

You start by clicking 'Get Data' to choose your data source.

What is NOT required when connecting to SQL Server in Power BI?

A Authentication method

B Database name

C Power BI license key

D Server name

Power BI license key is not needed to connect to SQL Server.

Which authentication method uses your Windows login credentials?

A SQL Server Authentication

B Windows Authentication

C OAuth Authentication

D Anonymous Authentication

Windows Authentication uses your Windows user account.

What does DirectQuery mode do in Power BI when connected to SQL Server?

A Queries data live from SQL Server

B Imports data into Power BI

C Exports data to Excel

D Creates a backup of the database

DirectQuery mode queries the database live without importing data.

Which practice helps secure your SQL Server connection in Power BI?

A Using encrypted connections

B Sharing credentials publicly

C Using weak passwords

D Allowing all users full access

Encrypted connections protect data during transfer.

Explain the steps to connect Power BI Desktop to a SQL Server database.

Think about what you do from opening Power BI to loading data.

Describe the difference between Import mode and DirectQuery mode when connecting to SQL Server in Power BI.

Consider how data is accessed and updated in each mode.