The .IQY, or Internet Query file extension is a popular and versatile file format used predominantly in Microsoft Excel. The IQY file extension is primarily associated with 'Web Query' by Microsoft Corporation. Written as a text file, an IQY file is essentially a URL that when used with the GET protocol, passes parameters to a web-based data source like .ASP, .CGI scripts or .HTML files. These parameters can request specific data that can be queried and subsequently retrieved BY a spreadsheet software like Excel. An IQY file holds a query, and not the data resulting from a query.
Using IQY Files in Microsoft Excel
The primary use of IQY files is in Microsoft Excel. They provide a way to create a dynamic link to live data that can be updated either by refreshing the data or by opening the spreadsheet. IQY files used in this manner can connect to both static and dynamic web pages, giving users a greater degree of control over the information they retrieve. More about this can be found at Microsoft support
Use of SoftArtisans and OfficeWriter
Another way to use an IQY file extension is through SoftArtisans' OfficeWriter ExcelWriter. ExcelWriter is a .NET product that creates Excel spreadsheets from scratch, or modifies existing ones. ExcelWriter uses IQY files to facilitate the import of data into spreadsheets, even those on a server, which would have otherwise been a complex task. More about ExcelWriter and its use can be seen on the official SoftArtisans Webpage
Sharing IQY Files
IQY file extension is not only confined to use within a single system. They can also be shared among different users. IQY files are plain-text files, which can be read by a simple text editor such as Notepad. This means an IQY file can be opened, edited, and sent to another person, who can then use it to retrieve the same data. This helps to facilitate collaboration between team members working on the same Excel projects. To learn more on how to share IQY files, check out this guide on Quora
IQY File Important Information
IQY files are incredibly useful for enhancing Excel's capabilities, enabling it to directly link to data sources on the web. As with all file types, IQY files come with certain considerations. While they can certainly facilitate data retrieval from the web direct into Excel, they remain plain text files. This means they are devoid of any inherent security measures. If an IQY file is intercepted during transmission or if it were manipulated by malicious code, the results could be devastating. Therefore, users should be cautious when using or sharing such files especially over unsecured networks. Details on security considerations for IQY files can be found at Microsoft 365 Security.
