Error when downloading SQL data in "Get data in Power BI" training module

Question

Hi. When I try and download SQL data to the Power BI desktop lab in the "Get data in Power BI" training module I get the following error message:

Unable to connect

We encountered an error while trying to connect.

Details: "Microsoft SQL: A network-related or instance-specific error occurred while establishing a connection to SQL Server. The server was not found or was not accessible. Verify that the instance name is correct and that SQL Server is configured to allow remote connections. (provider: Named Pipes Provider, error: 40 - Could not open a connection to SQL Server)"

This means I can't download the SQL data to complete the training module. I've followed all instructions correctly (launching the lab version of the Power BI desktop app, entering "localhost" in the server box etc

I don't think the SQL server is allowing me to connect with it. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Many thanks

James

This question is related to the following Learning Module

Answer 1

Hi James Wilson,

Thank you for reaching out on the Microsoft Q&A forum.

We tested it on our end, and it’s working fine. Please clear your browser cache and cookies, restart the lab, and try again from scratch. Let us know if the issue persists.

If you are still facing any issue, please let us know in the comments and where you are encountering this error along with the screenshot for reference. We are glad to help you.

Please don’t forget to Accept Answer and Yes for "was this answer helpful" wherever the information provided helps you, this can be beneficial to other community members.

Thank you.