SQL Server version required

[Jnthnshvr]

We have an old SQL 2008 standard server which we have performed some Power BI reports against.  We are upgrading to a SQL Server 2012, and would like to start using row/role-based security with Power BI.  Which version of SQL Server do we need?  Standard, Business Intelligence, or Enterprise?

Sincerely,

Jon Shaver

[Greg_Deckler]

Are you using row/role security in SQL or in Power BI?

[Jnthnshvr]

From our understanding, we would setup the role-based security for the Power BI reports and Dashboards in the tabular database model in SSAS.  So I would say in SQL?

Sincerely,

Jon Shaver

[Greg_Deckler]

If you really want close integration with Power BI though, I would recommend SQL Server 2016.

[Seth_C_Bauer]

I agree with smoupre, if you aren't pressed for time I'd wait for the release of SQL 2016. Or make a place for 2016 to support your BI efforst. It offers so much more in the way of the BI story, capabilities, and performance in tabular models.

[Seth_C_Bauer · Accepted solution]

@Jnthnshvr Here is the breakdown in features by edition. You need Business Intelligence or Enterprise to run Tabular, and RLS is included in both editions.

[Jnthnshvr]

Saw that comparison site, but was not certain if I was reading it right.  Thanks for the assistance!

I will pass the info about 2016 along, but I do not know if the people holding the purse strings will wait that long.  🙂

Sincerely,

Jon Shaver