You could assign a macro to the Workbook_Open event in the Excel file that
uprotected the worksheets, refreshes the data links and then reprotects the
file.

If you're using MS Query to query your database you can save the query and
have it update on open automatcally, but you might have to unprotect the
worksheet first.
--
Kevin Backmann


"Jim" wrote:

I have created a template that has drop down lists. These lists are external
data sets from a SQL database. When I protest the worksheet it does not
allow the refresh.

Second, is there a way for the refresh to be done without the user being
prompted?