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Can’t open Power BI files? Use these solutions
2 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Power BIusers have been frequently complaining about not being able to open theirPower BIfilesat times. They have experienced error messages when trying to openPower BIfiles.
Unable to open document; we weren’t able to restore saved database to the model
Before following any of the steps, make sure you’ve already checked that thefileyou are trying to open is actuallyPower BIcompatible, which include
I can’t open Power BI files: What can I do about it?
1. Make sure Power Bi files are named appropriately
Renamefilesif needed
Similar to other services,Power Bimay experience difficulties when trying to open and read off offilesnamed using special characters.
As such, it is recommended that you keep your filenames simple and made up of only upper and lowercase letters as well as digits. Do not include special characters such as “@”, “&”, “^” etc.
2. Consider a fresh Power BI install
Getting rid of your oldPower BIinstallation
Access the Power BI client with UR Browser and avoid issues with the desktop client for good.
3. Get the latest version of the Power BI desktop client
Power BIis constantly subjected to updates, so make sure you have the latestDesktoporStore Appversion installed.
4. Use the Web version
Theweb versionofPower BIis the first one to automatically update, so if you find any issues with the desktop version, just switch to the web version.
You can use the web version to open your locally storedPower BIfile, thus removing the need to use any third-party data recovery software
If all else fails,you could consider looking at their forums for frequent discussions andpatch notes.
Additionally, you can contact customer support and report your problem directly and follow their instructions afterward.
Teodor Nechita
Eager to help those in need, Teodor writes articles daily on subjects regarding Windows, Xbox, and all things tech-related.
When not working, you may usually find him either at the gym or taking a stroll in the park, trying to find inspiration for the next articles he may write.
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Teodor Nechita
