Running a report with data saved and no data sources needed

[jbwilks6]

I am creating a project portfolio and have several PBI desktop reports and dashboards that connect to a local SQL Server database instance. I've published it to service and all works fine (running in desktop and from service). The project/reports must be accessible to anyone (prospective employers, recruiters, etc). And when they are executed (Using desktop or BI service), access to the local database is not required but all the data is displayed on the reports and dashboards.  So how do I save or store the pbix files so that the reports can run (and return data) without needing to connect to my local database instance?

[lbendlin]

When you connect to your data source in Import Mode, the data is extracted from your source and pushed into the Power BI service during a refresh.  After that refresh users can interact with the reports or view the dashboards without the need for a connection to your data source.

If however you are connecting to your data source in Direct Query mode then your data source needs to be accessible at all times as any user interaction with your reports will result in fresh queries against the data source.

[jbwilks6]

Can the report be accessed anywhere outside of the Power BI service?  Like standalone if someone has a copy of desktop app?  I am using the free trial of BI service but it will be expiring and not sure if I can extend it, so looking for a longer term solution

[lbendlin · Accepted solution]

Yes, the same restrictions apply. If your data source is in import mode then you can send the PBIX file around and they can use the report but cannot refresh the snapshot.