Microsoft Query repeatedly runs out of time without connecting to my database.

Set a longer connect time By default, Microsoft Query tries to connect to your database for an amount of time predetermined by the ODBC driver for the data source. If connections to your database often require more time, you can set a longer interval. On the Edit menu in Microsoft Query, click Options, make sure the Cancel the connection if not connected within check box is selected, and then enter the number of seconds to allow for the connection.

Have Query try to connect indefinitely If you want to allow Microsoft Query to try to connect for an indefinite amount of time, clear the Cancel the connection if not connected within check box. If Microsoft Query can't connect to your database, you can cancel the attempt by pressing ESC.