How to find every external link and data connection in an excel workbook
- Step 1Upload your Excel file — Drop the .xlsx workbook to audit. JSZip unpacks the container and scans the XML.
- Step 2Review the link report — All external references are listed with their type and URL/path. Zero links means the workbook is self-contained.
- Step 3Download the report — Save the findings as a text report for inclusion in your compliance documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Can it remove the external links?+
Audit only in the current version. Breaking external links while preserving cached values is on the Pro roadmap.
Does it detect Power Query connections?+
Power Query connections in xl/connections.xml are scanned. Embedded M queries are not yet parsed.
What about links inside formulas (=A1 + [Other.xlsx]B2)?+
Formula-embedded external references are not yet detected. The current scan covers relationship files and connection XML.
Privacy first
Every JAD Excel tool runs entirely in your browser using SheetJS and ExcelJS. Your spreadsheets, formulas, and data never leave your device — verified by zero outbound network requests during processing.