PowerBI report/Dataflow with Datasource Azure Blob Vs Azure File Share

[AutoJL]

Hello Community!

I need some advice from veteran users/experts.

I have a Dataflow that uses Blob storage as data source from which I build my report. It is working quite well and im mostly happy with it (aside from the fact that I thought it was a bit slow until I realized I made some major overshights, mainly my PowerBI data center is hosted in North central US and I created my Azure storage account on Europe but I am already fixing that and will prob make everything faster).

Recently I have been reading about Azure File Share and I have been checking the forums for whether it can also work as data source and pros and cons. I am not totally confident I understood all the information I gathered hence why I am asking here.

Although it mostly looks like it is not possible to use Azure file share as data source ( There is no connector for it, I got that part for sure) some people seem to have worked around that.

Is this worth it? Would I have any benefit over my current system ( with Blob Storage)? 

If someone already uses Blob as data source, any special tips? Do you find it a "performing" architecture?

Many thanks!

[AutoJL]

Hi @Anonymous 

It does help!. Thanks for the feedback! With that in mind I am certainly staying with my Azure Blob storage design.

Any other feedback more than welcome!

Many thanks everyone!

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

Hi @AutoJL ,

Regarding Azure File Share, it's typically used for lift-and-shift scenarios where existing file-based applications are moved to the cloud without modification.

Given the direct support and optimizations for Azure Blob Storage in Power BI, it remains a strong choice for your dataflows. While Azure File Share could be used, the additional complexity and lack of direct support make it less ideal unless you have specific requirements that Blob Storage cannot meet.

Hope it helps!

Best regards,
Community Support Team_ Scott Chang

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