The below paragraphs throw light on the typical difference between using the Power BI Website and a Power BI Report Server:
1. Availability of features and Support
Power BI Service: A JavaScript API for Power BI service is loaded with features and keeps getting updated frequently. It can take advanced embedding scenario-support SSO, real-time data updates from the server, customer visuals, and wide interactivity (such as filters, slicers, and books). It makes one whole cloud-based solution (as it has features like paginated reports and AI analytics) and brings that beautiful stuff to life in cloud-appropriate environments.
Power BI Report Server: The JavaScript API would be more limited as it would mainly focus on embedding reports in an on-premises environment. Other cloud-specific features, like live connections to datasets existing in the cloud or AI-powered visuals, are simply not part of it. There is a lag with respect to API updates for the Report Server as compared to the Power BI Service.
2. Authentication and access
Power BI Service: Simple Process: AAD. It supports modern authentication protocols, including OAuth 2.0, and facilitates integration with Azure services and user-level access management.
Power BI Report Server: It uses some older on-premises authentication methods, such as Windows Authentication or Forms Authentication. However, it is not as easy to integrate with newer applications due to the lack of advanced token-based mechanisms that AAD uses.
3. Embedding Experience
Power BI Service: Power BI Service embedding is created for different environments, including web and mobile applications. It provides complete interactive embedding with rich APIs to modify visuals, set filters, and enable drill-through actions. The Service also integrates tightly with other Microsoft cloud services like Teams and SharePoint Online.
Power BI Report Server: Embedding is limited to on-premises use cases. Although it permits embedding reports in internal portals or custom applications, the scope of interactivity and customization through the API is narrower compared to the Service.
Impact on Development and Interactivity
Differences like these make much difference in embedding strategies and capabilities for developers:
Power BI Service is good for generating dynamic, cloud-first applications that require modern interactivity, scalability, and frequent feature improvements.
Power BI Report Server works best in controlled environments governed by strict data governance but, due to its severely limited feature set, curtails flexibility and creativity.
Recognizing these differences allows a developer to select the best platform according to the needs of their organization's data strategy and the needs of applications.
