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How to Fix Power BI Password Not Encrypted Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Encountering a “Password Not Encrypted” error in Power BI on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This issue often prevents you from accessing reports or data securely. Fortunately, it has simple fixes that anyone can follow.

This guide will walk you through each step clearly and patiently. You don’t need to be a technical expert to resolve this error.

By following these instructions, you can restore your Power BI experience smoothly and securely. Let’s get started with the basics.

Before diving into detailed fixes, it’s good to understand why this error occurs. Usually, it relates to encryption issues within Windows or Power BI’s credential storage.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure Power BI Desktop is updated: An outdated version can cause compatibility problems.
  • Check Windows 11 updates: Missing system updates might affect encryption services.
  • Verify your user account permissions: You must have administrator rights to perform some fixes.
  • Backup your Power BI files: It’s always safer to keep copies before making changes.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your PC refreshes system services and clears temporary glitches.

Why this matters: Encryption services may fail temporarily after updates or crashes. Restarting can reinitialize these services properly.

Step 2: Clear Power BI Credentials from Windows Credential Manager

Power BI stores passwords in Windows Credential Manager. Corrupted or outdated credentials can trigger the “Password Not Encrypted” error.

Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Press Win + S to open Windows Search, type Credential Manager, and open it.
  2. Click on Windows Credentials.
  3. Look for any entries related to Power BI or your data source (for example, SQL Server credentials).
  4. Select these entries and click Remove.
  5. Close Credential Manager and reopen Power BI.

Why this step helps: Removing old credentials forces Power BI to prompt you for new login information, which it will encrypt correctly.

Step 3: Run Power BI Desktop as Administrator

Sometimes, encryption errors occur because Power BI does not have sufficient permissions to access encryption APIs in Windows.

To run Power BI as an administrator:

  1. Right-click the Power BI Desktop shortcut or executable file.
  2. Select Run as administrator from the context menu.
  3. Try logging into your data sources again.

Why this helps: Administrator rights allow Power BI to use Windows encryption services fully, preventing permission-related errors.

Step 4: Check Windows Data Protection API (DPAPI) Service Status

Power BI relies on Windows’ Data Protection API to encrypt passwords. If this service is not running, encryption will fail.

Here’s how to check and start the service:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. In the Services window, scroll down to Cryptographic Services.
  3. Check if the service status is Running. If not, right-click and select Start.
  4. Also, ensure the Startup Type is set to Automatic.

Why this matters: Cryptographic Services handle encryption and decryption tasks necessary for password protection.

Step 5: Update or Repair Power BI Desktop

If none of the above steps work, your Power BI installation may be corrupted or outdated.

To update or repair:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store or Power BI official website.
  2. Check if an update is available for Power BI Desktop. If yes, install it.
  3. If updating does not help, uninstall Power BI Desktop via Settings > Apps.
  4. Download the latest version from the official site and reinstall it.

Why this is important: Corrupted files can cause errors with encryption mechanisms. A clean installation fixes such issues.

Alternative Method: Use Power BI Service (Web Version)

If the desktop application continues to show the error, consider using the Power BI web service temporarily.

Visit https://app.powerbi.com and sign in with your credentials. This method often bypasses local encryption issues.

FAQs

Why am I seeing the “Password Not Encrypted” error?

This error usually means Power BI cannot properly encrypt or decrypt stored passwords due to Windows encryption service issues or corrupted stored credentials.

Can I fix this without admin rights?

Some fixes require administrator access, especially related to services and permissions. Try clearing credentials and restarting first if you don’t have admin rights.

Does this error affect all data sources?

It mainly affects data sources where Power BI stores passwords locally, such as SQL Server or Analysis Services connections.

Will resetting Windows help?

Resetting Windows is a last resort. Usually, the problem is fixable with the steps above without drastic measures.

Is this error common on Windows 11?

Some users have reported more frequent encryption service issues on Windows 11 due to new security features and updates.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the problem persists, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: They can provide advanced troubleshooting for Power BI and Windows issues.
  • Check Power BI Community Forums: Other users may have shared solutions specific to your scenario (https://community.powerbi.com).
  • Review Windows Event Logs: Look for encryption or Power BI-related errors that can provide clues.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Password Not Encrypted” error in Power BI on Windows 11 is usually straightforward. Start with simple steps like restarting your PC and clearing credentials. Then verify encryption services and update your software.

Understanding the role of Windows encryption services helps you see why these steps matter. If needed, alternative solutions like using the Power BI web service can keep you productive.

With patience and these clear instructions, you can quickly resolve the error and continue working with your Power BI reports safely and efficiently.

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