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mcantos's avatar
mcantos
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11 months ago
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Unable to render paginated report - Error communicating with Analysis Services

Hey Community,    I have a problem with some paginated reports I delivered to a client. They get the error "Unable to render paginated report.  There was an error communicating with Analysis Servic...
  • v-sgandrathi's avatar
    11 months ago

    Hi mcantos,

     

    The error message “Unable to render paginated report. There was an error communicating with Analysis Services” usually indicates that the report viewer lacks sufficient access to the underlying semantic model, or that other factors such as Row-Level Security (RLS) or DirectQuery timeouts are affecting connectivity. 

    Please review the following key areas:

    Dataset Permissions
    Paginated reports that connect to a Power BI semantic model run under the viewer’s identity. The client must have access not only to the paginated report but also to the dataset in the same workspace. Please confirm that the user or their security group has Build (or at least Read/Build) permissions on the dataset. If sharing via an App, ensure that “Allow users to build content with the semantic models in this app” is enabled for the audience.

    Row-Level Security (RLS)
    If RLS is enabled on the dataset, it applies to paginated report queries as well. Verify that the client is correctly assigned to the intended role and is not restricted from seeing data.

    Query Duration / DirectQuery
    If the dataset uses DirectQuery, paginated report queries that exceed the 600-second execution limit will fail with this generic Analysis Services error. Consider simplifying queries, narrowing filters, or using Import mode if possible.

    Gateway Connectivity
    If the dataset relies on an on-premises data gateway, ensure the gateway is online, correctly configured, and that credentials for the underlying source are valid.

     

    Why it works for you but not for the client
    As the author, you automatically have dataset permissions and may not be restricted by RLS. The client, however, must have explicit Build/Read access and correct RLS mappings. 

    Next Steps

    Confirm that the client has Build permissions on the dataset.

    If using an App, verify the advanced sharing option mentioned above.

    Test access from the client’s perspective using View As roles in Power BI Desktop or by having them connect through Analyze in Excel.

    Check RLS assignments and simplify queries if DirectQuery is used.

    Validate gateway connectivity if applicable.

     

    Thank you.