Dataflow: Trouble with uploading Excel files and folders

[SteveD2]

Hi,

I've seen an increase in the discussion on the use of Dataflow so, I thought I would give it a try with what I thought would be simple examples of importing an excel file and a folder to see what it's like. The first problem I found is although I worked out that a gateway is required, it has to be the On-premises version and not the personal gateway... the documentation on this really needs to be improved.

The next issue I face is now connecting to the file through the gateway. No matter what I've tried, I continue to get this error.

Suggestions on what I'm doing wrong would be appreciated.

[SteveD2 · Accepted solution]

Ok, I found out how to do this through some trial and error. For those that may be interested, here's how you access files on your PC using Dataflow.

1. Download Power BI Gateway and install using the "On-Premises" version.
2. Sign in to the On-Premises Gateway using your windows username and password (not your Power BI/O365 credentials)
3. In the Power BI Service, navigate to the workspace where you want to create a Dataflow and create a new entity.eg Create\New Entity\Excel file.
4. Make sure your data source resides on your PC. Dataflow won't accept a sync/online version of a file or folder. If using Onedrive make sure the file is marked as "Always keep on this device". and;
5. Select your gateway and enter your windows username and password as per your windows account.