Linking to Publicly Shared Excel Files on Box

Tags Box Excel

Quick Links: | Overview of Linking Excel to Box | Set Up a Public Link in Box | Use the Link in Excel | Frequently Asked Questions |

Overview of Linking Excel to Box

You can pull cell values from a publicly shared Excel file stored on Box and display them in another Excel document. This allows you to keep your data up to date across files by referencing a central source.

However, there are a few important limitations to be aware of:

  • The source file must be publicly accessible. You cannot restrict it to Chico State users or specific people.
  • The destination file only updates the linked data when it is reopened or manually refreshed. It does not auto-sync in real time.
  • You are viewing a snapshot of the source file at the moment it was last refreshed.
  • If the shared link is exposed publicly, anyone with the link can download the file. However, they cannot edit it unless granted folder-level permissions.

Set Up a Public Link in Box

  1. Locate your Excel file in Box.
  2. Click the Share button next to the file.
  3. In the sharing window, change the access level to People with the link.
  4. Click the gear icon above the Copy button to open advanced sharing options.
  5. Copy the Direct Link.

Use the Link in Excel

  1. Open your destination Excel file.
  2. Use the following formula format to reference a cell from the source file:
    ='https://csuchico.box.com/shared/static/[filename].xlsx'!SheetName!Cell

For example, to pull the value from cell B6 on the worksheet named Balance, enter: ='https://csuchico.box.com/shared/static/sh5hjlfkgc8bkdqeedidz3329atoteol.xlsx'!Balance!B6

You can link to other cells by adjusting the reference (e.g., B7, B8, etc.) or drag the formula cell to fill multiple rows, just like with local Excel formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I move the source file within Box?

Nothing. The shared link remains valid even if the file is moved to another folder.

What happens if I rename the source file?

The link will still work. The file name does not affect the shared URL.

Can I link to multiple Excel files?

Yes, you can link to as many publicly shared Excel files as needed.

What happens if I restrict the link to only people at Chico State or people in the file?

Excel will show an error the next time you open the file. Public access is required for the link to work.

What if the link is shared publicly?

Anyone with the link will be able to view and download the file. They cannot edit it unless given folder-level edit access.

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