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Arne819's avatar
Arne819
Frequent Visitor
3 years ago

Differences between Access and a SQL server as a central data source

Hi first of all I haven't been working with Power Bi for long let alone in the Business Intelligence world. We are planning to automate reports which are currently done in Excel. We have to decide between an Access or SQL database as central data source. Here is my question. What are the advantages and disadvantages between the two (databases). Is it possible to publish an Access report or are there problems?

 

First of all thanks for taking the time to read the question and I look forward to the answers.

 

cheers Arne

 

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2 Replies

  • DataVitalizer's avatar
    DataVitalizer
    Super User
    3 years ago

    Hi Arne819 

    Here I created a quick comparaison between the usage of Access or Sql Server as database, I hope it will help you make the right decision.

     

      Microsoft Access SQL Server

    Easy to useYesA little harder
    CostCheapMore expensive
    Size of data it can handleSmall to mediumVery large
    How many people can use it at the same time?A few friendsLots of friends
    Works well with Power BIYesYes
    Security featuresLimitedStrong
    Needs a special computer to run?NoYes


    Did it work ? 👌 Mark it as a solution to help spreading knowledge 👉 A kudos would be appreciated

  • Arne819's avatar
    Arne819
    Frequent Visitor
    3 years ago

    Thank you for the small comparison.
    After reading some more i think we will use SQL in combination with View`s.