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SQL Server Import and Export Wizard: Can not go back after error

Norbert Harrer 0 Reputation points
2025-10-22T10:46:52+00:00

Hi.

After finishing an import using the SQL Import and Export Wizard, and if there's an error, I can't find a way to go back and fix it, even though the wizard indicates at the top that this should be possible:

2025-10-22 10_21_22-SQL Server Import and Export Wizard

It's very annoying to have to start from scratch.

This is with version 17.0.817.0 located in C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio 21\Release\Common7\IDE\CommonExtensions\Microsoft\SSIS\170\Binn\DTSWizard.exe

Thanks for any hints.

SQL Server Integration Services
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  1. Akhil Gajavelly 645 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-10-23T05:17:29.7366667+00:00

    Hi @Norbert Harrer ,

    You're right the message click the Back button to change the settings is misleading in the current SSMS Import/Export Wizard version (17.0.817.0).

    Unfortunately, this is a known behavior once the wizard has executed and hit an error like the Setting Destination Connection failure you’re seeing, the session is locked and you can’t go back to adjust settings. The only option is to restart the wizard.

    Workarounds you can try.

    • Before running the import, save the SSIS package use the Save SSIS Package option in the last step. That way, you can reopen and edit it directly in Visual Studio or SSMS without redoing the entire setup.
    • Alternatively, use SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) for more control and easier error recovery.

    This limitation has been noted by other users as well hopefully it’ll be improved in future SSMS versions.

    Thanks,
    Akhil.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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