Excel files as Evidence data source

[razakpm]

Feature Description

I'd like to propose the addition of Excel file support (with xls or xlsx extensions) as an input source for the "evidence.dev" into a common storage format (parquet) . This enhancement would enable users to import data directly from Excel files, including those with multiple sheets.

Goal of Feature

Integrating Excel file support would streamline the process of ingesting and visualizing data from various devices, enhancing the user experience and expanding the versatility of the feature.

Current Solution / Workarounds

At present, users resort to employing custom solutions to extract data from Excel files and store it in the database. This approach introduces unnecessary complexity and potential for errors.

Alternatives

One workaround currently utilized is converting each sheet of the Excel file into CSV format and then proceeding with the CSV-based solution. However, this method involves additional steps and may not fully leverage the functionalities inherent in Excel files

[archiewood]

Great request. We might be able to lean on DuckDB for this

https://duckdb.org/docs/guides/import/excel_import.html