It entails strict adherence to processes when embedding Power BI into enterprise tools; otherwise, security trimming will allow any user to access data that they do not have permission to access. Here are practical steps for successful, secure embedding and dynamic role management:
1. RLS configuration in Power BI:
RLS: Row-Level Security Restricting the access of data in Power BI reports depending on user roles is achieved through implementing Row-Level Security. RLS defines filters for the user to control the visibility of rows based on the credentials or assigned roles. Examples of role creation include Region Manager or Department Analyst. Apply DAX filtering as [Region] = USERNAME() to filter data dynamically. For instance, define your RLS role logic. When embedding, also make the Power BI service recognize these configurations for RLS as part of the excellent and safe foundation for secure trimming.
2. Use Power BI Embedded along with Azure AD Authentication:
Implement Power BI Embedded for embedding in your enterprise applications. When it comes to user authentication, Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) ensures security for the users.
Utilize user authentication dynamically through the use of OAuth2 Credentials, which pass a user's credential to Power BI. The EffectiveIdentity parameter in the embedding API maps the authenticated user from the application to Power BI roles, thus allowing dynamic role enforcement.
3. Link with the Enterprise Identity Management
Sync Power BI with your enterprise identity management system, be it Azure AD or on-premises Active Directory. Manage bulk-scale permission assignments with Azure AD groups. All Power BI roles are assigned automatically according to group memberships; hence, access controls are consistently enforced without the need for manual intervention. In addition, for tools that integrate Power BI, such as SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive, it would be useful to ensure that these systems are set to inherit permission from Azure AD.
4. TLS Enforcement and Secure Communication
Use the Power BI TLS connections best practices to implement the TLS 1.2 or higher on all connectors. This will ensure an encrypted data transmission between Power BI, applications, and users.
Following Microsoft's guidance, position your systems to deny any TLS version lower than necessary to safeguard against possible data breaches that could arise during embedding.
5. Monitor and Audit Access
Use Power BI Audit Logs and Azure Monitor to find user activity and failed access attempts.
Access roles, permissions, and RLS filters should be frequently audited and reviewed to ensure compliance with organizational changes.
If these strategies are used, Power BI integrations can attain the desired conditions of adherence to enterprise security standards and also provide a safe and customized user experience. Microsoft has Power BI Security Documentation for more information.
