Direct Query - Limits ability to manipulate data (removes the Data section)

Hi Anonymous,

Yes, there is no data section in Direct Query model. There are some limitations in Power Query. For example, you can't create a new table, There is a 1 million row limit for returning data when using DirectQuery and so on. More details, please review the limiations part in articles: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/desktop-use-directquery and https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/desktop-directquery-about.

>> I don't see where I can't perform the same functions that I can in Import.

You can create column and measure by selecting File > Options and then Settings > Options > DirectQuery, then selecting the option Allow unrestricted measures in DirectQuery mode. Then right click the table->New Column or New Measure as follows(I test getting data from SQL Server in Direct Query Mode).



While not all functions are supported in Direct Query. Some function of DAX are supported. For example, Time intelligence capabilities are not available in DirectQuery. You will get an error if the function is invalid when you use it in Direct Query. 

Best Regards,

Angelia