# Power Query

> ETL tool developed by Microsoft

**Wikidata**: [Q114876985](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q114876985)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_Query)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/power-query

## Summary
Power Query is a proprietary software tool developed by Microsoft for Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) processes. First published in 2008, it functions as a non-tangible executable component designed to run on the Microsoft Windows operating system.

## Key Facts
- **Developer:** Microsoft (American multinational technology corporation).
- **Category:** Software; specifically classified as an ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tool.
- **Initial Release:** Published in 2008.
- **Operating System:** Runs on Microsoft Windows.
- **License:** Proprietary license.
- **Parent Company Origin:** Microsoft was founded on April 4, 1975.
- **Parent Company HQ:** Microsoft is headquartered in Redmond, United States.
- **Wikidata ID:** Identified as an instance of software.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Power Query?
A: Power Query is a software tool developed by Microsoft. It is technically classified as an ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tool used for data processing.

### Q: When was Power Query released?
A: Power Query was initially published in 2008.

### Q: What operating systems support Power Query?
A: Power Query is designed to run on Microsoft Windows.

## Why It Matters
Power Query serves as a specialized utility within the Microsoft software ecosystem, addressing the specific need for ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) operations. As a proprietary tool published by one of the world's largest technology corporations, it represents Microsoft's strategic investment in data handling and software utilities. Its inception in 2008 places it as a long-standing component in the landscape of Windows-based software solutions.

The tool's classification as a "non-tangible executable component" underscores its role as a digital infrastructure asset rather than a physical product. By operating under a proprietary license, it maintains exclusivity within the Microsoft environment, reinforcing the company's integrated approach to software development and operating system compatibility (Microsoft Windows).

## Notable For
- Being a dedicated **ETL tool** developed by a major technology corporation (Microsoft).
- Operating under a **proprietary license**, distinguishing it from open-source alternatives.
- Its **longevity**, having been originally published in **2008**.
- Its integration with the **Microsoft Windows** ecosystem.
- Classification as a distinct **software component** (instance of software).

## Body

### Development and Ownership
Power Query is a software entity developed and maintained by Microsoft, a technology corporation founded on April 4, 1975. Microsoft is headquartered in Redmond, United States, and is a major player in the software development and technology industries. The development of Power Query aligns with Microsoft's broader portfolio of Windows-compatible software.

### Technical Classification
The tool is formally classified as an instance of **software**, defined as a non-tangible executable component of a computer. Its primary function is categorized as an **ETL tool** (Extract, Transform, Load), a specific type of software used to combine data from multiple sources into a single, consistent data store.

### Platform and Availability
Power Query is designed exclusively for the **Microsoft Windows** family of operating systems. It operates under a **proprietary license**, restricting its usage and distribution rights to the terms set by Microsoft. The tool has been accessible to users since its publication date in **2008**.

### Linguistic Presence
Documentation and information regarding Power Query are available across multiple languages, including German, English, Italian, and Norwegian.