How to Set Up Scheduled Refreshes in Power BI
- George Apostolov
How to Set Up Scheduled Refreshes in Power BI: step-by-step guide
Let's begin by navigating to 'My workspace' in the Power BI service, where all your reports and datasets are stored.
Once in your workspace, find and select the semantic model (dataset) that you want to set up for automatic refreshes.
Look for the three dots (ellipsis) next to your dataset and click to reveal the menu options.
From the dropdown menu, select 'Refresh' to access the dataset configuration options.
In the 'Settings' panel, find the 'Scheduled refresh' section and toggle 'Keep data updated' to 'ON'.
Under 'Refresh frequency', choose 'Daily' or 'Weekly' based on your needs.
Select your preferred time zone, then specify exactly when you want refreshes to occur.
Review your settings one last time, then click 'Apply' to save your schedule. Your data will now refresh automatically like clockwork.
Quick answer: To set up scheduled refreshes in the Power BI service, navigate to My workspace, select your semantic model, open the dataset menu, and choose Refresh. In the Settings panel, toggle Keep data updated to ON, choose your refresh frequency, set your time zone and time, and click Apply.
About this Power BI tutorial
Automate your data updates in Power BI by configuring scheduled refresh settings, choosing your frequency and time, and saving your preferences. This guide shows how to set Up Scheduled Refreshes in Power BI in 8 steps, starting with "Let's begin by navigating to 'My workspace' in the Power BI service, where all your rep..." and finishing with "Review your settings one last time, then click 'Apply' to save your schedule. Your data...". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Power BI interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to set Up Scheduled Refreshes in Power BI?
8 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Power BI data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Power BI. Related guides: How to Share a Power BI Dashboard with External Users, How to Share a Power BI Report with External Users and How to Share Power BI Dashboards. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
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