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HYPERLINK Function
Summary
The HYPERLINK function transforms any cell into a clickable link that opens web pages, documents, or navigates to specific locations within Excel workbooks. Perfect for creating interactive dashboards, reports, and navigation systems.
Syntax
HYPERLINK(link_location, [friendly_name])Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| link_location | Text or Reference |
Yes | Required. URL, file path, UNC path, or workbook reference (e.g., 'http://example.com', '[Workbook.xlsx]Sheet1!A1') |
| friendly_name | Any |
No | Optional. Display text shown in cell instead of raw link |
Using the HYPERLINK Function
HYPERLINK turns static worksheets into interactive experiences. Use it for dashboard navigation, linking to external reports, creating table of contents, or building dynamic link lists from cell data.
Common HYPERLINK Examples
Basic Web Link
=HYPERLINK("https://www.microsoft.com","Visit Microsoft")Creates clickable 'Visit Microsoft' text linking to homepage.
Dynamic Link from Cell
=HYPERLINK(A1,"Click Report")Uses URL stored in A1 as link target with custom display text.
Internal Workbook Navigation
=HYPERLINK("[Budget2024.xlsx]Summary!A1","Go to Summary")Navigates to Summary sheet in external workbook.
UNC Network Path
=HYPERLINK("\\server\shared\report.xlsx",B2)Opens network file with dynamic display text from B2.
Named Range Link
=HYPERLINK("[#Book1.xlsx]SalesData","View Sales")Links to named range 'SalesData' in another workbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE! error
Cause: Invalid link_location path or non-text friendly_name
Solution: Verify path exists and friendly_name returns valid value
Link doesn't work
Cause: File moved/deleted or invalid URL
Solution: Test path manually and use absolute references
Notes
- Excel for web supports URLs only
- Use absolute cell references ($A$1) for dynamic link management
- Internal links require [Workbook.xlsx]Sheet!Cell format
- UNC paths work only in desktop Excel
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365, Excel for web (URLs only)
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+