Connecting to a network folder

[Anonymous]

Here is what I'm trying to do:

I want to connect to a network folder that includes three excel files (same format) and combine them into one report.

Below is a screenshot of a folder including files:

I go get data in power bi desktop, click folder as a data source.

I tried to copy and paste the path:

When I click "OK" it seems like it's loading but after 2-3 seconds I get an error message:

I've got the entire error message saved or I can reproduce if you think that may help. It's a Frown (Error).

Any suggestions? I tried to connect to a local folder with exact same files and it worked just fine. 

[v-lid-msft]

Hi @Anonymous ,

Can you see the folder when you use the browser in Folder Connector? Could you please try to use the origin URL of this folder (such as \\server\share for shared folder, ftp://server/folder for ftp site? 

Best regards,

Community Support Team _ Dong Li
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[Anonymous]

Thanks @v-lid-msft . 

Yeah I can see the file when I go through a browse menu.

I tried what you suggested:

I looked up the origin URL of the P folder below:

I then combine it with my name and paste the path:

It loads for a couple of seconds and then it throws the same error. 

[v-lid-msft]

Hi @Anonymous ,

How about the result if connect one excel file in this folder using excel connector? Does the error message contain any detail information such as network, timeout, access forbiden or error code?

Best regards,

Community Support Team _ Dong Li
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[Anonymous]

@v-lid-msft I did connect to a single file via excel connector just fine. I can connect to a local folder (including same files that don't work when saved in network folder) but I need to connect to a network folder. 

I can send the entire error message to your inbox. It only says: "Operation is not valid due to the current state of the object."

[v-lid-msft]

Hi @Anonymous ,

Sorry for that, We cannot reproduce this issue. But if you can connect the single file in network folder using excel connector, we connect them as multi table then combine them.

Based on your error detail provided, We have found several similar situation: 

https://community.powerbi.com/t5/Power-Query/PowerQuery-import-from-Folder-dont-work-for-network-folders/td-p/751164 (check URI in Advanced Editor)

https://community.powerbi.com/t5/Power-Query/Error-when-loading-data-from-certain-folders/td-p/670966  (Python Script as a workaround)

If it doesn't meet your requirement, We suggest you to open a ticket here for help if you are a pro user: https://powerbi.microsoft.com/en-us/support/

Best regards,

Community Support Team _ Dong Li
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.