Power BI "Publish to web" report feature. Is it link only access or listed on directory and searches

[zapppsr]

My main doubt was not answered here: Can anyone without having access to the link or embedded code, find my report on the web, searching in a Directory. For instance, looking for Finance report and get a list of all public Finance reports, including mine?

I need to know if I keep the link secure the report will only be available for people with the link... and other they share the link of course...

Is it private for "people with link" or public listed in directories and searches...

[pmuralikrishna1]

Hi,

When you use "Publish to Web" feature. you're report is available in internet(Unauntheticated user too can access). 

Finding you report in web search or public listing is entirely depends on the people you share the link with them. You cannot even track if the user is share/posted in public listing then web search engines might find your link and can access it.

If you wanted to secure your data then please use Power BI App and invite the people who would like to view the content.

Note: When you use "Publish to Web", Microsoft itself is providing you a warning.

[zapppsr]

Hi, thanks for the answer, but you stil didn't answer the question.

I'm not asking if people can find my link published on the internet. I'm asking if they will find my report in a Directory.

Think like this: I went to a report, used the option "Publish to Web", didn't copy or shared the link to anyone. Will someone find this report in a search or Microsoft Directory?

And about the Power BI App, I guess the invited must have a Power BI pro licence to access, Am I right?

Thanks again!

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

HI @zapppsr,

>>Think like this: I went to a report, used the option "Publish to Web", didn't copy or shared the link to anyone. Will someone find this report in a search or Microsoft Directory?

Current microsoft not contains any public directory can direct find out the report which you shared with publish to web feature.

So that means if you do not share with others, they can't find out this report.(for security reason, we not recommend you to share reports who contains sensitive data)

Notice: embed code is a random unique code which generated by power bi, power bi also not mentioned they will public the generate algorithms.

>>And about the Power BI App, I guess the invited must have a Power BI pro licence to access, Am I right?

Yes, this is pro feature, so you need pro license. You can refer to below link to know more detail info:

Create and publish apps with dashboards and reports in Power BI

Licenses for apps

As an app creator you need a Power BI Pro license. For your app users, there are two options.

• Option 1: All business users need Power BI Pro licenses to view your app.
• Option 2: Free users in your organization can view app content if your app resides in a Power BI Premium capacity. Read What is Power BI Premium? for details.

>>I need to know if I keep the link secure the report will only be available for people with the link... and other they share the link of course...

Actually, these links may disclosed by chatting tools, email or other methods. I'd like to suggest you use 'Power BI Embedded', it support security setting.

Reference links:

Power BI Embedded

Power BI Embedded Documentation

Regards,

Xiaoxin Sheng

[zapppsr]

Thanks @Anonymous. Very comprehensive explanation.