Excel guide
How to find and break external links in Excel
External links point to another workbook. They trigger the "update links" prompt, break when files move, and can reveal file names and folders to whoever receives the model. Here is where they hide and how to remove them.
Find them
- Data tab > Edit Links (Workbook Links in Microsoft 365) lists every linked workbook.
- Ctrl+F, search for [ , Within: Workbook, Look in: Formulas. External references contain the file name in square brackets.
- Formulas > Name Manager: sort by Refers To and look for other file names.
- Also check chart series, data validation lists and conditional formatting rules, which Find does not search.
Break them
- Edit Links > Break Link converts linked formulas to their current values. This cannot be undone, so save a copy first.
- Delete or fix names that point to other workbooks, or that show #REF!.
Faster with Plzfix
- Find connections jumps to the first formula that links outside the workbook.
- AutoColor colours every external link purple, so they are visible on any sheet.
- Delete broken names removes names showing #REF!, #NAME? or #N/A in one click.
- Save backup keeps a timestamped copy before you break anything.
Questions
Why does Excel still ask to update links after I broke them?
The link usually survives in a named range, a chart series, data validation or conditional formatting. Check those, and delete names that refer to the old file.
Do my files leave my computer?
No. Every tool runs locally inside Office. Plzfix only contacts the internet to validate your licence and check for updates. Your workbooks and decks are never uploaded.
How much does Plzfix cost?
There is a free tier with a daily click allowance and every tool unlocked. Pro is €10 per month, €50 for 6 months or €90 per year, per user, with unlimited use.