How to Replace or Update the TREX URL in a Tableau Workbook.

You don’t need to rebuild your Tableau dashboard to update or switch the extension connection (for example, when moving to a new server, updating a license, or switching from a trial to production setup). You can simply replace the TREX URL reference in your existing workbook.

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✅ Recommended Method: Use the Apps for Tableau Toolbox

Use the Apps for Tableau Toolbox to easily replace the extension in your workbook:

👉 Go to the Toolbox

This tool allows you to:

• Replace the old .trex reference with the new one

• Apply updated license keys

• Avoid manual XML editing

• Keep your existing dashboard setup intact.

🧩 Alternative Method: Manually Replace the TREX URL

If you prefer not to use the Toolbox, you can manually replace the extension URL using a text editor (such as Notepad++ or VS Code).

Steps:

1. Download and back up your Tableau workbook.

2. If it’s a .twbx, open it in Tableau and save as a .twb (unpackaged workbook).

3. Open the .twb file in your text editor.

4. Search for your current TREX or extension URL (e.g., https://oldserver.com/extensions/WriteBackExtreme).

5. Replace it with the new one (e.g., https://newserver.com/extensions/WriteBackExtreme).

6. Save and reopen the file in Tableau Desktop.

7. Verify the extension loads correctly and points to the new environment.

8. Republish your workbook to Tableau Server or Tableau Cloud.

Full details and image examples: How to Replace the URL of the .trex blog

⚠️ Tip: Always make a backup before editing workbook XML manually.

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💡 When to Use This

You can use these methods for several scenarios:

• Migrating to a new server or domain.

• Moving from trial to production.

• Updating to a new version of the extension.

• Switching to a different environment (e.g., dev → test → prod).

• Replacing a license-linked TREX file.

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Need help? Reach out to our team at [email protected], and we’ll assist you!