DirectQuery vs Import mode in Power BI - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

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What is Import mode in Power BI?

Import mode loads data into Power BI's memory, allowing fast analysis and offline use. Data is refreshed on schedule or manually.

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What is DirectQuery mode in Power BI?

DirectQuery mode queries data directly from the source each time you interact with the report, showing real-time data without storing it in Power BI.

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Name one advantage of Import mode over DirectQuery.

Import mode offers faster report performance because data is stored in memory, reducing query time compared to DirectQuery.

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Name one advantage of DirectQuery over Import mode.

DirectQuery shows the most current data without needing to refresh, which is useful for real-time or frequently changing data.

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What is a limitation of DirectQuery mode?

DirectQuery can be slower because every interaction sends a query to the data source, and some complex calculations may not be supported.

Which mode stores data inside Power BI for faster access?

A Streaming mode

B DirectQuery mode

C Import mode

D Live connection mode

Import mode loads data into Power BI's memory, enabling faster report performance.

Which mode queries the data source every time you interact with the report?

A Import mode

B Aggregated mode

C Cached mode

D DirectQuery mode

DirectQuery mode sends queries to the data source on demand to get the latest data.

What is a key benefit of using DirectQuery mode?

A Real-time data updates

B Offline data access

C Faster report loading

D No need for data source

DirectQuery provides real-time data by querying the source directly.

Which mode requires scheduled refreshes to update data?

A Import mode

B DirectQuery mode

C Live connection

D Push dataset

Import mode stores data and needs refreshes to update it.

Which of these is a limitation of DirectQuery?

A Supports all complex DAX calculations

B Slower performance due to live queries

C Data is stored in Power BI memory

D No connection to data source needed

DirectQuery can be slower because it queries the data source live.

Explain the main differences between DirectQuery and Import mode in Power BI.

Think about where the data lives and how often it updates.

When would you choose DirectQuery over Import mode? Give reasons.

Consider data freshness and size.