File Extension Database

Open DAX File

DAX, standing for Data Analysis Expressions, is a file extension commonly used by Analysis Services Formula Expressions to represent a collection of functions, operators and constants that can perform a set array of operations in Analysis Services, Power BI Desktop and Power Pivot in Excel.

Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) in Power BI and Excel

In the context of Power BI and Excel, DAX file extensions are used as a part of the Power Pivot in Excel and reporting in Power BI. These files are designed to perform powerful aggregations and calculations on data, fostering superior data modeling, data analyses, as well as enhanced reporting. Making use of DAX language in Power BI and Excel, users can create custom measures and calculated columns in tables for advanced data manipulation and analysis.

DAX in SQL Server Analysis Services

The DAX language also forms an integral part of SQL Server Analysis Services. It enhances the capabilities of SQL Server Analysis Services, specifically in the creation of tabular data models. In this context, DAX files are used to define custom formulas for calculated columns and measures, enabling more complex and powerful data insights and visualizations.

How to Open DAX Files

Considering its particular use-cases, DAX files aren't intended to be opened in the conventional way -- such as double-clicking the file to view its contents. Instead, DAX files are typically loaded into the relevant Microsoft tools (Excel, Power BI, or SQL Server Analysis Services) where they are used within data models or reports.

DAX File Important Information

It is important to note that DAX is not a conventional data file but rather a language that helps unlock powerful possibilities with data analysis and visualization tools within the Microsoft ecosystem. While you cannot open a .dax file directly as you would with standard file formats like .txt or .docx, mastering DAX can substantially boost your data analysis capabilities within Power BI, Excel, and Analysis Services. For further learning, Microsoft provides detailed documentation and resources to master the art of DAX.

How Can I Open DAX File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open DAX file is to find a DAX file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a DAX file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open DAX file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as DAX file opener then try to search online for "DAX viewer", "application to open DAX file" or "open DAX file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open DAX file

How Can I Open DAX File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a DAX file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a DAX file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with DAX file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as DAX file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open DAX file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open DAX file then try to search for "DAX viewer", "application to open DAX file" or "read DAX file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read DAX file

How Can I Open DAX File on Android

If you downloaded a DAX file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded DAX file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "DAX".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "DAX viewer", "DAX file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open DAX File on iPhone or iPad

To open DAX File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the DAX file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "DAX". This way you can find apps which can open DAX files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "DAX viewer" or "DAX file" online in your favorite search engine.

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