Connect to SQL Server on a Remote Desktop

[joakre]

Hello!

I am looking for some assistance on getting my Power BI Desktop to connect with the SQL server I currently utilize at my workplace.

When I attempt to connect I get an error stating that the server cannot be found.  I have double and triple checked, and remote access is turned on.  To access the SQL server with SSMS we utilize a remote desktop connection, separate from the desktop that I currently use Power BI on.  Is this a situation where I would need to see about having Power BI Desktop installed directly on the Remote Desktop? or is there a different method that I cannot find to connect to the server.

Thank you for all of your help!

[santiago_ortiz]

Why is it needed to be configured as import mode? the documentation says that DirectQuery is also supported for SQL server connections, but for some reason I tried and was unsuccessful

[marcelsmaglhaes]

Hey @santiago_ortiz 
I hope you've already resolved this situation.

About your question: You can use DirectQuery. In most cases the conectivity mode is Import, so, it is a default text.

And to be clear, your problem is not the conectivity mode, but rather the fact not being able to connect the database trough the network.

Regards,
Marcel

[marcelsmaglhaes]

Hi @joakre !

Basically you just need pass the server address IP (or name). Its important to check if the  database server accept connections trouhg the network (wich IP and wich port).

1. In Power BI Desktop, on the Home tab, select Get data > SQL Server.

2. In the SQL Server database dialog box, enter the Server and Database (optional) names, make sure the Data Connectivity mode is Import, and then select OK.

** If this post helps, please consider accept as solution to help other members find it more quickly.
Regards,
Marcel Magalhães