Do we need VPN to open the Power BI Report Server from a web browser?

[abanar2]

Dear All,

We are considering introducing the Power BI Report Server in our organization. I have a question that I couldn't find an answer to in the forums:

Do we need a VPN connection to access reports on the Power BI Report Server from a web browser within our internal network? Is it optional, or does it function like the cloud-based Power BI Service, where a VPN is not required to access reports?

Thank you in advance!

[Anonymous]

Your solution is so great d_gosbell and Poojara_D12 

Hi, @abanar2 

I wish you all the best. Previously Super user have provided a solution to help you solve the problem. Since we haven't heard back from you yet, I'd like to confirm if you've successfully resolved this issue or if you need further help?
If yes, you are welcome to share your workaround and mark it as a solution so that other users can benefit as well. If you find a reply particularly helpful to you, you can also mark it as a solution.
If you still have any questions or need more support, please feel free to let us know. We are more than happy to continue to help you.
Thank you for your patience and look forward to hearing from you.

Best Regards

Jianpeng Li

[Poojara_D12]

Hi @abanar2 

Power BI Report Server (PBIRS) is an on-premises solution, meaning it is hosted within your organization's internal network rather than in the cloud like Power BI Service. Whether a VPN is required to access reports depends on how your IT team configures the server's network accessibility. If PBIRS is deployed on a company intranet, users can access reports via a web browser without a VPN, as long as they are connected to the corporate network (wired or Wi-Fi). However, if users need to access reports remotely (outside the company network), then a VPN or reverse proxy (such as an application gateway or web application firewall) would be needed unless PBIRS is exposed securely over the internet. Unlike Power BI Service, which is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, PBIRS is strictly limited to the organization's network unless explicitly configured for external access. Your IT team can determine the best approach based on security policies and remote access requirements. Let me know if you need guidance on deployment options!

[d_gosbell · Accepted solution]

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@abanar2 wrote:

Do we need a VPN connection to access reports on the Power BI Report Server from a web browser within our internal network?

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No, if your Report Server is installed on a machine in the same network as the client machines you will not need a VPN. Where a VPN would be needed is if you are working remotely (eg. from home) and you want to access reports.