Connect Power BI with external network MSSQL

[powerbiexpert22]

how can i connect Power BI Desktop to get data from on premises MS SQL database hosted on external network ?

[v-lgarikapat]

Hi @powerbiexpert22 ,

Thanks for reaching out to the Microsoft fabric community forum.

@danextian , 

Thanks for your prompt response

In addition to  @danextian  steps, I have added a few more step-by-step instructions for connecting to a SQL Server hosted on an external network.

To connect Power BI Desktop to an on-premises SQL Server hosted on an external network, first make sure your machine can reach the server this might involve using a VPN provided by the hosting organization or confirming that the server is accessible via a public IP and port, with firewall rules allowing your IP. Once network access is sorted, you’ll need valid credentials typically SQL Server authentication with a username and password, unless you're on a trusted domain or using Azure AD. Then, open Power BI Desktop, go to Get Data, choose SQL Server, and enter the server’s IP and port, optionally specify the database name, select the appropriate authentication method, and click Connect. Just make sure the connection is encrypted if needed and avoid exposing the server to the internet without proper security like IP whitelisting and strong credentials.

Power Query SQL Server connector - Power Query | Microsoft Learn

Manage a SQL Server data source - Power BI | Microsoft Learn

Best Regards,

Lakshmi

[v-lgarikapat]

Hi @powerbiexpert22 ,

We haven’t heard back from you regarding our last response, so I just wanted to check in to see if you were able to resolve the issue. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to let us know.

Best Regards,

Lakshmi

[danextian]

Does external network mean a network  different from your company? or you're trying to connect to your company's server outside the company network? If the latter, you will normally need a vpn.

[powerbiexpert22]

Hi @danextian ,

external network mean a network different from my company

[danextian]

I once worked on a project connecting to an Azure on-prem setup. IT provided the connection strings and credentials, but access only worked when connected to the company network via VPN. It’s unlikely any company would allow their on-prem data to be accessed externally without secure measures, even if you have the credentials. Better to be safe than sorry.